Similar to a teenaged version of Pearl Jam -- just as dynamic as their older brothers, while even more sincere and tortured -- Days of the New was formed by vocalist Travis Meeks and school-day friends Jesse Vest on bass and Matt Taul on drums. The trio moved from Charlestown, Indiana (their hometown) to Louisville, Kentucky and met guitarist Todd Whitener. After coming together, the quartet soon became a hot tip for veteran producer Scott Litt (R.E.M., the Replacements), who formed his own Outpost Records in 1996. The group recorded their self-titled debut album, and watched the record do well on alternative radio soon after its release in mid-1997. Days of the New 2 followed in 1999.