The legal dispute between the two factions of Cro-Mags has been settled, and there will now be two versions of the band actively touring. Founding bassist Harley Flanagan sued his former bandmates John Joseph (vocals) and Mackie Jayson (drums) last year claiming the idea for the band was his in 1981 and the two defendants were using the name without his permission since 2002.
The settlement allows John Joseph and Mackie Jayson to continue to use the name Cro-Mags with a caveat. They must be advertised as "Cro-Mags JM" (the JM standing for John and Mackie). Meanwhile, Flanagan will tour under the original moniker – Cro-Mags.
Cro-Mags JM released this statement explaining everything:
“As all of our loyal fans and supporters know, John Joseph, Mackie Jayson, A.J. Novello and Craig Setari have been performing as the ‘Cro-Mags’ for many years. Due to recent litigation involving Harley Flanagan, John Joseph and Mackie Jayson, we have all agreed that for the benefit of our fans and supporters we want to make sure that everyone knows who it is they are coming out to see. Therefore we have reached a settlement designed to avoid any further confusion. The lead singer and drummer on Age of Quarrel, John and Mackie, along with A.J. and Craig, going forward will perform under the name Cro-Mags ‘JM’ which we have a legal right to use. The ‘JM’ stands for John/Mackie. Of course, we need some time to make this change. There will be a three month transition where our shows may still be advertised as Cro-Mags and Harley will also be performing as Cro-Mags. During this transition period, to confirm which band you want to see, please check on our websites or social media pages. As of August 1, 2019, all shows under the Cro-Mags ‘JM’ name will feature us, and all shows under the Cro-Mags name (on its own) will feature Harley. Thanks for your patience as we wrap this up. Now that this is all said and done, we will be working on a new studio album, while continuing to deliver the live performances our fans have come to know and love over the years. A win/win situation. See you out there on the road.”
Harley offered his own statement in video form:
I'm happy the former bandmates figured it out without the need to stab anybody.
