The Fartz – “What’s in a Name?”

A blistering blast of raw political fury, What’s in a Name? (frequently styled as What’s in a Name…?) is a definitive studio recording from Seattle hardcore punk pioneers The Fartz. Released in 2001 via Jello Biafra’s legendary independent imprint Alternative Tentacles Records, this LP serves as a venomous masterclass in fast, loud, and uncompromising Pacific Northwest punk. The physical vinyl release treats fans to updated, state-of-the-art production value, supercharging the band’s iconic early 80s catalog with a crisp, thunderous sonic delivery that holds nothing back.

What makes this record incredibly cool is its absolute relentlessness and historical weight. Formed in 1981, The Fartz laid down the blueprint for Seattle’s extreme music scenes—boasting a legendary alumni lineage that includes members who went on to form The Accüsed, 10 Minute Warning, and Guns N’ Roses. On What’s in a Name?, the reunited group re-recorded their classic, legendary tracks alongside a fierce cover of Black Sabbath’s “Children of the Grave.” Fueled by Blaine Cook’s visceral vocal attack, the album delivers 15 tracks of chaotic, rapid-fire anti-establishment anthems that feel just as dangerous, urgent, and politically charged as the day they were originally conceived.

Track Listing:

1. People United – 1:13
2. Police Force (W.T.O. Mix) – 1:06
3. Iron Fist – 2:30
4. Freight Train – 0:48
5. Is This the Way (Its Gonna Be?) – 2:26
6. Take a Stand (Against the Klan) – 1:57
7. Heros (Come In Boxes) – 2:37
8. Death Merchants – 1:32
9. Viet-Vet – 1:59
10. God Fearing Christians – 2:54
11. Judgement Day – 2:03
12. Resistance (War Is Hell!!!) – 1:48
13. Idiots Rule – 1:34
14. Children of the Grave – 2:29
15. You’ve Got a Brain (So Use It) – 30:55