During the 1970s and 80s, rock and roll evolved from sounding like cartoon music to realism. The wars were very real to the young, and they were rebelling. Punk had come from Scotland as the Scots rebelled against the British. In California, punk became thrash or "thrash and bash." Generally it was hardcore, agressive, in-your-face music with the musicians wearing skulls meaning, "I'm doing what's in my head."

Doug Moody, who had held executive positions with several record companies, formed Mystic Records to record unknown bands. Mystic joined the revolution. It reminded Doug of the 1950s when black bands turned the blues into R & B. Doug had 18 gold records during the 1950s including "In the Still of the Night" by the Five Satins on Doug's Ember Records label prior to founding Mystic.

With the help of five producer/engineers, Mystic recorded 500 unknown skateboard bands throughout the 80s and beyond. Mystic specializes in hardcore punk, crossover thrash, underground, vintage, and cult records. Many of the bands recorded by Mystic later became famous such as NOFX, Dr. Know, RKL, Battallion of Saints, Ill Repute, and The Mentors. Mystic also released vinyl records by Suicidal Tendencies, Government Issue, Black Flag, The Minutemen, The Instigators, and Bad Religion.

Today 300 of the 500 original bands are currently on Mystic Records. Over the next two years, Mystic will release the catalog on white vinyl LPs and Super Seven, making many vinyl collectors' dreams come true.