THE 88 was formed in 2002 by Adam Merrin (piano/keys) and Keith Slettedahl (vocals/guitar), who were friends in high school. Todd O’Keefe (bass) and Anthony Zimmitti (drums) joined as well, completing the lineup.
They released their debut, Kind of Light, in 2003. Their next album was released in 2005 and was called Over and Over. The 88 signed with Island Records in 2007, releasing Not Only…But Also a year later in 2008. In 2009, they decided to return to the independent scene, mutually parting ways with Island Records and releasing This Must Be Love.
Their latest release, The 88, in 2010 was structured around the band’s raw sound, focusing more on the live interplay than production tweaks and overdubs. Before the release of this album, they toured with Ray Davies of The Kinks as his backing band.
The 88 currently does not have any specific agenda, but don’t plan on stopping the music any time soon.
