Opal

Opal was an influential American neo-psychedelic rock band formed in the early 1980s in Los Angeles, emerging from the Paisley Underground music scene. The group initially formed under the name Clay Allison, featuring guitarist David Roback (formerly of Rain Parade), bassist Kendra Smith (from Dream Syndicate), and drummer Keith Mitchell. They released their first recordings under the Opal name in 1984, including the *Fell from the Sun* EP, followed by *Northern Line* in 1985. Their sole full-length album, *Happy Nightmare Baby*, came out in 1987 on SST Records and became a cult favorite on college and alternative radio. After Smith left the band during the album's tour, David Roback continued with vocalist Hope Sandoval, eventually evolving the band into Mazzy Star in 1989. Opal's dreamy, psychedelic sound left a lasting impact on the alternative rock scene of the time.