The Current

Formed in Huntington Beach, California, Outspoken began with a single phone call in late 1989 that brought together the band’s original members, launching a journey that would span more than three decades. What started as a band practicing in the corner of a crowded machine shop quickly evolved into one of Orange County hardcore’s most distinctive voices, carrying the band coast to coast through relentless touring and a sound uniquely their own.

After putting out a well-received demo cassette earlier the same year, Outspoken released their debut 7” EP, Survival, in 1990, establishing themselves within the burgeoning Orange County hardcore scene alongside influential acts such as Uniform Choice and Instead. By the end of that same year, the band had already played countless hometown shows and completed their first West Coast tour. Soon after returning home, Outspoken began writing and rehearsing what would become their 1992 debut full-length album, A Light In The Dark. The release marked a clear progression in both songwriting and identity, showcasing a more refined and dynamic version of the band’s already unmistakable style.

As their reputation continued to grow, Outspoken became a regular presence on the East Coast, expanding their audience through constant touring and word of mouth. By mid 1993, the band had written, recorded, and released The Current, an EP that redefined their sound and solidified the message, intensity, and purpose for which they are most remembered today.

Available for the first time as a 12” EP, this reissue includes the three original 7” tracks, the two additonal tracks from the original CDEP, as well as two bonus compilation tracks, “Spark” and “Spoke.