Both Worlds

John Joseph, who once fronted the storied New York hardcore band the Cro-Mags while also working as a roadie for the celebrated Bad Brains, now serves as vocalist for Both Worlds and brings an extensive background to the project. The lineup, completed by guitarist A.J. Novello, bassist Eddie Coen, and drummer Pokey, issued the EP Beyond Zero Gravity on Another Planet in 1996 ahead of their first full-length album, which arrived in 1998. Early opening slots on nationwide tours with the Misfits, Helmet, and Life of Agony helped the musicians tighten their interplay and sharpen their live presentation. After inking a deal with Roadrunner, Both Worlds enlisted producer Michael Barbiero, whose prior credits include Soundgarden and CIV, to oversee sessions for the debut Memory Rendered Visible. Audiences hoping for another Cro-Mags-style effort could be surprised, since the band blends its hardcore origins with melodic touches and standard singing.