CORE is a four time Billboard charting Austin-based rock band with roots in Las Vegas and McAllen Texas. The band is led by internationally renowned guitarist Chris Iorio, a founding member of Adelitas Way and superstar singer Mark Morales, known for his work with Sons Of Texas and Mark Morton. Bass player Jarrett Smith and drummer Brandon Lemond form the groups heart-pounding rhythm section. Chris Iorio and Jarrett Smith would form the band out of a previous project together. Two US tours and 4 Billboard charting rock singles later and the band would turn to Mark's powerful voice, reaching the band to new heights just in time for the opportunity to record with legendary multi platinum producer Kane Churko. Currently working on the next era of CORE, the guys are excited to continue releasing the new music. 

CORE’s music combines elements of active rock, post grunge, alt rock and classic rock influences. From hard hitting tracks to breathtaking solos and new-rock anthems, this quartet crafts catchy choruses and delivers relatable, honest lyrics accompanied by powerful guitar riffs. CORE’s refreshing and much needed style sets them apart commercially. 

Their distinctive sound and image led them to secure their first national record deal with Los Angeles-based Silverstone Records USA, alongside manager Mike Quinn. CORE’s Live performances beckon back to the days of pure rock and roll, dynamic and captivating, showcasing their talent and stage presence. CORE is in the middle of releasing new music from their upcoming album and touring in 2025.

         Mark Morales
 Lead Vocals

Mark Morales hails from the bowels of deep south Texas, where he formed and fronted the metal band Sons Of Texas. McAllen, Texas may be his hime, but Mark has taken his talents all over the world. Mark signed with the record label Razor and Tie for Sons Of Texas first record and toured the United States multiple times as the lead singer. As Mark grew in the vocal world his powerful stage pressance and impressive vocal stamina coupled with unparalleled range landed him the gig of a lifetime, singing for Mark Morton of Lamb of God on his solo album. Mark's voice would be immortalized alongside countless other legendary rock/metal vocalists of the era on one of the biggest solo albums of the year. When it came time to tour the work they had done, Mark was the clear choice to take all of the songs to the stage and tour with Mark Morton for his solo tours as his vocalist. This gig would send Mark all over the US as well as the seas, taking part in the Monsters of Rock Cruise with the project as well. Mark considered it the biggest honor to be asked to sing the late great Chester Bennington's parts on the album. Filling those shoes after the singers untimely death was no easy task, but once again, Mark Morales, or “The Beast” as he is know to his bandmates in CORE, rose to the challenge. 

After his work with Sons of Texas was coming to an end, Mark was a highly sought after prospect to fill multiple positions in established acts. in 2022 when CORE's second US tour with Buckcherry had left them in need of a strong frontman to fill the job and take the band to the next level, Mark was the perfect fit. After a long search, and many tryouts/ rehearsals, Mark won the job and melded into the group like he was always there. Mark is ready to take CORE to the next level. A proud Husband and Father, Mark is already cementing his name in the list of legendary rock vocalists of the era. 
 

            Chris Iorio
 Lead Guitar, Main Back Up Vocals                 
 

Chris Iorio is a multi Billboard charting gold album songwriter living in Las Vegas, NV. He began playing guitar at the age of eight. His guitar influences are Randy Rhoads, Slash, Jimmy Page, and David Gilmour to name a few. Chris started studying music theory at a young age which included studying at the Academy for the Performing Arts where he flourished in classical guitar composing. 

At 13, Chris got his first break when he was featured on National TV performing on CNN Live with Jeff Carlisi (38. Special), and also featured on NBC Nightly News. Chris was even quoted in People Magazine.
In 2005, at only 15, He was named the "Best Guitar Player" in Las Vegas when he won "Guitarmageddon" (Guitar Center's National Contest)
In 2006, he appeared on MTV's "Camp'd Out: I'm going to rock camp." 
in 2007, Chris co-founded the current lineup of rock band, Adelitas Way, with singer Rick Dejesus. He and the band signed with Virgin/Capitol Records in 2008. Chris co-wrote numerous songs on the band's debut CD "Adelitas Way" including the band's leadoff single "Invincible" which reached #4 on the Active Rock Chart. "Invincible" was used as the theme song for WWE Superstars which is now more than 150 weekly episodes strong which broadcasts internationally. It was also used by the NFL, NHL, NCAA March Madness and on numerous T.V placements (CSI:Miami, MTV's Bully Beatdown) and video games (WWE: Raw vs. Smackdown 2010, etc.). The song remains popular, as it is being used as the theme song for fox sports coverage of NCAAF, at live sporting events worldwide, and is currently receiving international airplay in several countries. (Mexico, South Africa, U.K, Romania, etc.) Around this time, Chris co-wrote the Divide the Day song, "One Night Stand" which charted in the top 30 on the Active rock charts.

During 2009, Chris and the rest of Adelitas Way extensively toured the U.S playing well over 200 shows, and shared the stage with acts such as Motley Crue, Shinedown, Disturbed, Staind, and Chris Cornell to name a few. However, in late 2009, Chris and the band went their separate ways due to internal band issues. Co-founding the band Cosmic Wolf with frontman Yayo Sanchez, Chris met drummer Chris Copeland. Later joined by bass player Jarrett Smith, the four toured the US rocking the industry. Chris co-wrote the band's first and only album, "Through Western Winds & Static Wails". Due to internal issues and musical differences, the band broke up in November, 2014. The three members of Cosmic Wolf wasted no time and got to work on the next project, CORE. 

    
          Jarrett Smith       
   Bass, Backing Vocals
 

Jarrett Smith was born in Corpus Christi, TX. Growing up the son of a PRCA Cowboy and Cowgirl, the road life was built into his genes. He began an interest in music around the age of 10, and by 13 had his first guitar that he taught himself to play. After his parents retirement from professional rodeo, he moved to Mckinney, TX. He joined the honor choir in 4th grade and continued singing until sophomore year in high school. His choirs won many awards, including receiving all 1's at state UIL competition.

At the age of 17 he founded his video production agency,  JSA Productions, with the release of a motion picture "Stok Stalk Stock" centering around a live concert experience. Shot by Eric Edwards (Knocked Up) and starring William Katt (The Greatest American Hero) the film would later go on to win two international Videographer Awards of excellence in two categories, movie and music. He spent the next years building his company and working with some of the top directors and producers in the industry, all while still continuing his self education in music, producing commercials for Harley Davidson and Speedo to name a few. Music video production was a huge part of his company, where he met the guys from Cosmic Wolf. He spent about two years doing production for the band working on lights and video, and working with them on the road. His interest in music continued to grow, as he taught himself how to play the drums as well. When the band needed a new bass player, they did not have to look far. Jarrett had never played bass, but with the help of lead guitarist Chris Iorio, the entire set was learned in a week for his debut show at the famous Stubb's BBQ in downtown Austin, TX. After his first show with the band, it was clear he had found his place as he continued to play with the band until their eventual break up. Touring the US with the band, the members of CORE became even closer. When Cosmic Wolf broke up in 2014, it was not even a question that the three backing members of the band would take their turn to step into the spotlight. 
 

    Brandon Lemond 

Drums, Backing Vocals
 

Born n' raised in the ATX, he started playing drums at the age of 5, and breaking hearts at the age of 6.He has graced the stage with several bands, including Rubber Monster, Another Addiction and most recently Black Heart Saints. His influences are, Tommy Lee, Alex Van Halen, Tommy Aldrich and of course his father, Scott Lemond. "I've been taught, that as long as you have a place to stand, you can move the world. And thats exactly what I plan on doing."