Review MADBALL “Not Your Kingdom”

Madball are among the pioneers of New York City hardcore. With roots dating back to 1988, the band has become one of the defining names of East Coast hardcore. Originally formed as a side project connected to Agnostic Front in the late ’80s, Madball has grown into a true institution within the scene. Now the band returns with Not Your Kingdom, its tenth studio album.

Not Your Kingdom was written as a collective effort, and that spirit is reflected throughout the record. This is not an album driven by individual egos but by a shared mindset and a common passion that comes to life across 14 new tracks.

While there is no traditional title track, the album’s name is closely tied to the driving “What You Say,” with the line, “You hold the keys, but it’s not your kingdom,” making its message unmistakably clear. One of the album’s more aggressive songs, it is packed with crushing riffs while addressing power, control, and the imbalance of today’s world. At its core, it captures the rebellious spirit that has always defined hardcore.

The album opens with “Tethered,” a track built around a massive groove. It serves as a powerful hardcore anthem before “Flammable” raises the intensity with its relentless pace and explosive energy.

At the same time, Not Your Kingdom offers more than pure anger and aggression. “Rebelude,” for example, is a calm instrumental interlude that sets the stage perfectly for the furious “Rebel Kids.” The song also reflects the band’s philosophy. Rather than chasing trends, Madball has always followed its own path with confidence, a mindset that has earned the band lasting respect throughout its career.

On Not Your Kingdom, Madball strips away anything unnecessary and focuses on what matters most. That approach is evident in the slightly metal-infused “Stab Wound” as well as the thunderous “Family First.” Freddy Cricien and his bandmates stay true to the values that have guided Madball from the very beginning, giving the album a clear sense of purpose and identity.

“IWI” begins with a brief acoustic guitar passage before quickly transforming into a blistering 30-second hardcore assault. The album closes with “Chase a Dream,” a fitting finale that captures the band’s trademark intensity while bringing the record to a satisfying conclusion.

Not Your Kingdom marks Madball’s first studio album in eight years, and it makes it clear that the band has lost none of the energy, conviction, or authenticity that has made them one of hardcore’s most respected names.