Opal

Opal was a psychedelic band from Los Angeles that emerged in the early 1980s as part of the Paisley Underground scene, known for blending folk rock with dreamy, rich vocals and intricate guitar work. The group originally formed in 1983 under the name Clay Allison, featuring guitarist David Roback (formerly of Rain Parade), bassist Kendra Smith (from Dream Syndicate), and drummer Keith Mitchell. After a single release under that name, they transitioned to Opal and put out several EPs, culminating in their sole full-length album, *Happy Nightmare Baby*, in 1987. The band’s journey ended when Smith left during the album tour, but Roback went on to form Mazzy Star with vocalist Hope Sandoval, carrying on the ethereal musical legacy.