MADBALL’s Legacy: A New Chapter with “Not Your Kingdom”

Bridging Generations in Hardcore Music

New York hardcore legends MADBALL continue to stand as a unifying force between the old-school hardcore scene and the contemporary heavy music landscape. For these musicians, hardcore is not just a genre; it is the essence of their existence. Their tenth studio album, “Not Your Kingdom”, set to release on July 24 through Nuclear Blast, showcases the band’s signature stories of resilience, infused with a more profound and introspective approach than ever before.

A Personal Journey in Lyrics

The album’s second single, “Tethered”, is a candid exploration of everything that MADBALL embodies. With raw honesty, frontman Freddy Cricien reflects on the pivotal experiences that shape his life and the human condition, singing: “I’m bound to all the things / That I’ve done and seen / Tethered to everything / All the good the bad / That made me.” The track delivers the classic, energetic groove that defines the genre, accompanied by a music video directed by Cricien and Dave Causa, which serves as a tribute to the streets of New York City, the band’s birthplace.

A Reflection on Nostalgia

Cricien comments on the songwriting process: “‘Tethered’ is the opening song on the record and that’s ironic because it’s one of the last ones written for the album. I love the vibe, very bouncy groovy NYHC that really transported me back to the ’90s — hence the lyrics/theme. To my ears, it has a ‘nostalgic’ feel but still manages to come across as something new for us! Made sense for it to be the second single to demonstrate the diversity of the album — the whole thing is a story, a ride of sorts and this one as the opener really sets a good pace sonically and lyrically.”

Anthemic Sounds of “Rebel Kids”

The first taste of the new album was offered through the single “Rebel Kids”. This anthemic track draws on the band’s classic sound while resonating with a new generation of hardcore enthusiasts. The music video was co-directed by Cricien and Causa, with Causa also responsible for filming and editing.

The Catalyst for the Album

Cricien explains: “Funny enough, ‘Rebel Kids’ was the first track written for this album and actually was completely put together probably two years ago … or so. The sentiment, vibe and message of the song really became the catalyst for what came after. We all loved the song immediately but I couldn’t have known it would be the first single. We have several songs that we feel could be first ‘out of the gate’. But in the end ‘Rebel Kids’ made the most sense musically, lyrically etc. We look forward to releasing this song and album. It’s a special one for us and we’re hoping the rest of the world feels the same once they hear it!”

Album Details and Track Listing

The complete track listing for “Not Your Kingdom” includes:

• 01. Tethered
• 02. Flammable
• 03. Rebelude
• 04. Rebel Kids
• 05. Don’t Misstep
• 06. What Say You
• 07. Stab Wounds
• 08. Sunrise
• 09. Life’s A Mural
• 10. Family First
• 11. Clockwork
• 12. IWI
• 13. The Ride
• 14. Chase A Dream

Production and Artwork

“Not Your Kingdom” was recorded at The Boneyard Studios in Nashville, Tennessee, with additional interludes captured by Jeff “Stress” Davis and Chuck Treece at Chop Shop Studios. The production team comprised Andrew Baylis, Aiden Thompson, and Grady Saxman, with final mixing and mastering handled by Lee Rouse. The album’s striking cover art features photography by the legendary Cornell Capa, courtesy of Magnum Photos and the Cornell Capa Estate.

Band Lineup and Changes

MADBALL comprises:

• Vocals – Freddy Cricien
• Guitar – Mike Gurnari
• Drums – Mike Justian
• Bass – Paul Delaney

In August 2023, longtime bassist Jorge “Hoya Roc” Guerra announced his departure from the band. Cricien clarified that there was “no bad blood or animosity” between them, explaining that they were “simply moving in different directions.”

A Glimpse into MADBALL’s History

MADBALL was born in the late 1980s as a side project of AGNOSTIC FRONT. The band evolved when AGNOSTIC FRONT’s frontman, Roger Miret, invited his younger half-brother, Freddy Cricien, to take the microphone during performances. This collaboration laid the foundation for what would become a cornerstone of the hardcore genre.

Looking Ahead

The band’s previous album, “For The Cause”, was released in June 2018 through Nuclear Blast and was mixed and mastered by renowned producer Tue Madsen at Antfarm Studios in Denmark. The album featured co-production from Tim Armstrong of RANCID, further solidifying MADBALL’s position in the heavy music scene.

Conclusion

MADBALL’s “Not Your Kingdom” promises to be a significant entry into their discography, merging nostalgic elements with fresh perspectives. As they continue to evolve, the band remains a vital link in the hardcore community, inspiring both long-time fans and new listeners alike.

FAQs

When will “Not Your Kingdom” be released?

The album is set to be released on July 24, 2023.

Who produced the album?

The album was produced and engineered by Andrew Baylis, Aiden Thompson, and Grady Saxman.

What is the significance of the title “Not Your Kingdom”?

The title reflects the band’s journey and personal growth, offering a narrative that delves deeper into the human experience.

Who are the current members of MADBALL?

The current lineup consists of Freddy Cricien (vocals), Mike Gurnari (guitar), Mike Justian (drums), and Paul Delaney (bass).