Opal - band Tickets

Opal was a pivotal Los Angeles-based band formed in the early 1980s, born from the creative energy of Clay Allison. The group's journey from intimate EPs to a full-length record helped lay the groundwork for Mazzy Star, one of the defining acts of alternative rock. Though Opal is effectively inactive since the late 1980s, their music continues to be celebrated by fans and historians for its dreamy textures, melodic storytelling, and influence on the late 80s/early 90s indie scene.

Here you’ll find a concise overview of Opal’s history, key releases, and a look at the members who contributed to this brief but impactful era of LA music. While there are no current official Opal social channels, historical sources preserve the story of the band and their evolution into Mazzy Star.

Opal’s discography includes early singles under the Clay Allison name, the Fell from the Sun and Northern Line EPs (1984–1985), and the 1987 studio album Happy Nightmare Baby (released on SST in the US and Rough Trade in the UK). The compilation Early Recordings (1989; Rough Trade; reissued in 2019 by Salley Gardens) offers a focused look at the band’s earliest material. After Kendra Smith left the touring lineup mid-tour, Opal transitioned toward Mazzy Star with Hope Sandoval, marking a new chapter in alternative rock history. Although there are no ongoing Opal tour dates, the project’s legacy lives on in the music of Mazzy Star and the enduring pull of its atmospheric sound.

For fans exploring the band’s history, consider visiting archival pages and official music resources to learn more about the members, the evolution of their sound, and the context within the Los Angeles indie scene of the 1980s. If you’re looking to secure related concert experiences in the region, we can help you find current live options featuring Mazzy Star-era material performed by the bands and artists inspired by Opal’s influence.