C88 is a three-disc box set compilation released in 2017 that documents the British indie pop and underground guitar music scene of 1988. Acting as a chronological sequel to the iconic 1986 C86 cassette tape and the subsequent C87 box set, this collection captures a transitional period in independent music. It features 71 tracks packaged in a deluxe clamshell box, accompanied by a comprehensive 9,000-word booklet containing band biographies and historical context written by original C86 co-compiler Neil Taylor.
The compilation highlights the evolution of the genre as the original "shambling" jangle-pop sound began fusing with early shoegaze, power pop, and the burgeoning Madchester scene. Disc one primarily focuses on artists who made their vinyl debut or major breakthrough in 1988, featuring landmark tracks like "Elephant Stone" by The Stone Roses and "Colours and Shapes" by Pale Saints. The remaining discs showcase rare singles, B-sides, and cult classics from era defining acts like The House of Love, The Vaselines, and Inspiral Carpets, alongside key releases from influential independent record labels like Sarah Records and Creation.
