Los Angeles Mod Legends The Question Reissue 'Getting Through' - newly remastered 1985 EP
Oglio Entertainment continues its essential reissue campaign spotlighting influential Los Angeles trio The Question with a newly remastered edition of their 1985 EP Getting Through, available now on all major streaming platforms.
Originally recorded in the summer of 1985 and released as the band’s second 7” EP, Getting Through captures The Question at full stride—sharp, melodic, and impossible to pin down. The reissue brings renewed clarity to a release that has long stood as a cornerstone of the band’s cult legacy.
Widely regarded as the first—and arguably most significant—mod band to emerge from Los Angeles, The Question formed in the early 1980s and built a devoted following through explosive live shows, steady college radio airplay, and their appearance on the landmark L.A. garage/paisley underground compilation Wharf Rat Tales. While rooted in mod revival, the band’s sound consistently pushed beyond the scene’s boundaries.
At the center was Tony Rugolo, whose bass-driven songwriting and distinct vocal approach gave the band its identity. Alongside him, guitarist Phil Cusimano brought a sharper, more aggressive edge—both in his playing and songwriting, including the EP’s title track “Getting Through.” Backed by David White’s forceful, kinetic drumming, the trio created a sound that blended power pop urgency, ‘60s R&B influence, and a restless musicality that set them apart from their peers.
Across its five tracks, Getting Through showcases that range in full—from the driving immediacy of the Cusimano-penned title track and “On the Right Track” to the band’s take on “Daddy Rolling Stone,” and the darker tones of “Move Around in the Dark” and “Gone Forever.” While often associated with Cusimano’s signature Rickenbacker sound, some of the EP’s lead guitar work—including “Daddy Rolling Stone” and parts of “On the Right Track”—was recorded on a Stratocaster, adding another dimension to the band’s sonic palette.
The Question’s legacy continues to resonate, with praise from critics and fellow musicians alike:
“It was 1981 and people called them mods and scooters were their gods, and they were Los Angeles' answer to The Jam.” — Insight Out Magazine
“This power pop band should have been a household name. The Question is one of the best bands ever to come out of Los Angeles.” —Jack Rabid
“The Question is one of my all-time favorite LA bands.” — Michael Quercio (The Three O’Clock)
“Their shows were always packed, and they delivered fantastic performances.” — Mr. Suave’s Mod Mod World
“The Question motivated the f*ck outta No Doubt...” — Gabriel Gonzalez (original No Doubt)
Track Listing — Getting Through
- Getting Through — 02:31
- On the Right Track — 03:19
- Daddy Rolling Stone — 02:08
- Move Around in the Dark — 02:35
- Gone Forever — 03:04