Against The Grain is a New York Hardcore band founded in 1996 by seasoned hardcore musician Rob Kabula (bass), known for his work with Agnostic Front, and guitarist Carlos Diaz. The original lineup also featured drummer Stan Ambro, a veteran of Cause For Alarm, alongside Rob Portvliet (guitar) and Adriano "A.G." Garcia (vocals). The band's initial sound was characterized by a metallic blend reminiscent of the 1980s crossover style, with their 7-song 1996 demo echoing Agnostic Front’s Cause For Alarm album, a connection influenced by Kabula and the band's management and production by Billy Milano, the vocalist for S.O.D. and M.O.D.

As 1996 drew to a close, Agnostic Front announced plans for a reunion with their original lineup, prompting Kabula to rejoin his former bandmates. In 1997, with Agnostic Front's extensive touring schedule ahead, Kabula left Against The Grain due to time constraints. After a brief stint with bass player Dave Urban from Faction Zero, who played only one show, Rob Portvliet transitioned to bass, allowing the band to continue as a four-piece. Later that year, Against The Grain released a split 7" record on Guillotine Records with fellow NYHC band Downlow, featuring the track "Caco Raspado."

In 1998, Against The Grain released their first full-length CD, Mentiroso, through Too Damn Hype Records, which gained international recognition. The sound on Mentiroso shifted from the band's earlier demo, leaning more toward a traditional hardcore style infused with elements of oi and punk, while reducing the metal influence. A.G.'s vocal delivery evolved from a deep growl to a clearer, more raspy style. The band intentionally distanced themselves from the metal trend they felt had become oversaturated within the New York Hardcore scene. Special guest vocals on the album included contributions from Roger Miret of Agnostic Front and Billy Milano. Following this release, the band opted for a lower profile and played sporadically, leading to Portvliet's departure from the group.

In 1999, after the passing of Raybeez, Against The Grain recorded "Will You Ever Come Back" for the Tribute to Raybeez and Warzone compilation on Hatecore Records, with new member Shawn Urscheler on bass. The following year saw Urscheler's exit, replaced by Jim Marshall from Home 33, marking the band’s return to a five-member lineup with the addition of lead guitarist Chris D'Alessandro, a founder of the New Jersey hardcore band Faction Zero. This lineup produced two split CDs: a collaboration with Belgian hardcore band Between The Lines on Funtime Records and a self-released split CD with Faction Zero/Wasteland Recordings titled War Stories.

After 2002, A.G. left to pursue college in Los Angeles, resulting in a hiatus until 2003 when the band performed select shows in the tri-state area. In 2005, bassist Jim Marshall departed, and Rob Kabula made a semi-retired return to the band. A year later, the group ceased performing, leaving their status uncertain, with occasional tracks appearing on various compilations.

Lyrically, Against The Grain maintained a politically moderate stance, addressing a range of issues from critiquing both right-wing and left-wing ideologies to incorporating themes of violence, sexual innuendo, and humor. The band operated on a part-time basis, treating their music as a hobby while prioritizing their careers and personal lives. They favored a low-profile approach, believing in organic discovery through word-of-mouth rather than aggressive self-promotion, which contributed to their status as a cult band within the underground scene. This approach often led to confusion regarding their activity and existence.

== MEMBERS == Adriano "A.G." Garcia - Vocals Carlos "Carlooch" Diaz - Guitar Rob Kabula - Bass Pete "The Beat" Barrera - Drums

== FORMER MEMBERS == Chris D'Alessandro - Lead Guitar Rob Portvliet - Guitar / Bass Jim Marshall - Bass Shawn "The Giant" Urscheler - Bass Dave Urban - Bass Stan "The Man" Ambro - Drums