“April Fool” was formed in early 1988 by drummer Walt “Wiggy” Kaye who enlisted guitarist Chris Rocus, bassist Chris Mock and vocalist Dave Stradling. First order of business was a four song demo recorded at Dave Ivory’s studio “Iris Sound”. April Fool then hit the club circuit hard while the song “Bad Boy Willie” was receiving local Philadelphia airplay, resulting in the bands live concert following starting to grow.

JAX was formed in New York City 1987 by Thom Jack. They originally consisted of Thom Jack on guitar and vocals, Patrick Conlon on drums, Robert Agnello (Spencer Davis, Carmen Sandiego) on bass, and Al Maddy on keyboards (Nitecaps). JAX recorded a six song demo in a SOHO studio in New York City that Thom had helped to build in exchange for free studio time.