The Fastbacks - 1985 Okay

Unreleased in any format for over 35 years, 1985 Okay is the definitive archival rescue of a complete 12-song demo by the legendary Fastbacks. Recorded in July 1985 on a 4-track cassette Portastudio in a basement in Pioneer Square, this collection captures the "classic" lineup of Lulu Gargiulo, Kim Warnick, and Kurt Bloch at their most urgent. Joined by powerhouse drummer Richard Stuverud (War Babies, Three Fish), the band delivers a masterclass in the melodic pop-punk and proto-grunge energy that would eventually put Seattle on the global map.

Lovingly remastered by Kurt Bloch in 2021, these recordings strip away the polish of later studio efforts to reveal the band’s core: sun-drenched melodies colliding with high-octane punk grit. Featuring early versions of fan favorites and tracks that haven't been heard in their entirety until today, this release is a vital missing link for anyone tracking the evolution of the Pacific Northwest underground.