Description:
With its rhythm-and-blues-driven sound influencing the work and style of many local musicians, some have argued that Fensics were OKC’s first punk band. Others have suggested they were more of a fusion act, dubbing the band “punkabilly.” Formed in 1978 and releasing a 7″ single “Full Time Job” / “Tornado Warning” in 1979, the band mostly worked on original material but with a slant toward rockabilly they also mixed reworked versions of tunes like “Somethin’ Else” and “Hound Dog” into their sets. Cultivating a look and sound unique to the area, Fensics were able to secure gigs and build a significant following. Playing at every opportunity, the band participated in shows in Norman, Tulsa, and Dallas, earning opening slots bands like The Cramps, the Police, Talking Heads, and other touring acts.
In 1979, the Fensics went in the studio with producer Clovis Roblaine and laid down 16 tracks in under a week. They chose “Tornado Warning” and “Part Time Job” to be released as their sole single on the No Sweat label.