The Fartz

The Fartz were originally formed in 1981 and were one of the first well-known hardcore bands from Seattle, Washington. They were signed to Jello Biafra's Alternative Tentacles Record label. They were notable not only for playing incredibly fast and heavy music, but also for their politically and socially conscious song lyrics that criticized government policies, religious hypocrisy, racism, sexism, and poverty. Throughout their musical career they championed a blue collar, working class perspective on life.

History

Early career

The Fartz original lineup in 1981 included vocalist Blaine Cook, guitarist Tommy Hansen, bassist Steve Hoffman, and drummer Loud Fart. Tommy Hansen and Loud had formerly played together in the Seattle band Kaos (not to be confused with the UK version with the same name). Blaine and Steve had first met in 1979 when they worked together at a local restaurant called Red Robin. Tommy Hansen taught Steve Hoffman how to play bass. Steve asked Loud to play drums when he saw him tinkering with Robo's drum kit at a Black Flag show in Seattle. In the punk tradition of the Ramones, each member of the band took on the family name Fart, so they became known as Blaine Fart, Tommy Fart, Steve Fart and Loud Fart.