Madball

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Jay Weinberg leave Madball?

Jay Weinberg, renowned drummer and son of E Street Band's Max Weinberg, had a brief stint with Madball in 2010. His departure from Madball was surrounded by controversy, with the band citing differences in lifestyle, attitude, and commitment as primary reasons. Madball's frontman, Freddy Cricien, mentioned that Jay's approach and background didn't align with the band's ethos and hardcore roots. The split was not amicable, as Madball publicly stated that Weinberg was dismissed rather than leaving voluntarily. The band emphasized their need for members who share their working-class values and dedication to the hardcore scene, which they felt Weinberg lacked. Jay later joined Slipknot, finding success in a different genre. His time with Madball was short-lived, but it highlighted the importance of chemistry and shared values in band dynamics, especially in tight-knit scenes like hardcore and heavy metal. Fans of Madball continue to appreciate the band's authenticity and commitment to their roots.

What is the meaning of Madball?

The name "Madball" carries significant meaning within the hardcore and metal communities. Originally, "Madball" referred to a toy made from a baseball with a face carved into it, which was thrown around as a playful yet rebellious act among New York City hardcore fans. When the band formed in the late 1980s, they adopted the name to symbolize their raw energy, aggression, and defiance against the mainstream. Madball's music and attitude reflect this spirit, delivering hard-hitting lyrics and powerful performances that embody the essence of hardcore and heavy metal. The name also represents unity and brotherhood, key themes in their lyrics and interactions with fans. By choosing "Madball," the band established themselves as a force in the underground scene, committed to authenticity, aggression, and the unbreakable bond of the hardcore community. The name has since become synonymous with uncompromising music and a relentless live presence.

Who is the lead singer of Madball?

The lead singer of Madball is Freddy Cricien, also known as Freddy Madball. He has been the band's frontman since its inception in 1988. Cricien is celebrated for his powerful vocals, commanding stage presence, and deep connection with the hardcore and metal fanbase. Born in New York City, Freddy is also the younger half-brother of Roger Miret, the vocalist of Agnostic Front, another iconic hardcore band. Freddy's lyrical content often addresses themes of resilience, community, and real-life struggles, resonating strongly with fans around the world. His dedication to the hardcore scene and relentless energy has helped Madball maintain their status as one of the most influential and enduring bands in heavy metal and hardcore. Over the decades, Freddy Cricien has become a respected figure in the genre, known for his authenticity, passion, and unwavering commitment to the music and culture that Madball represents.

What is the new Madball record?

The most recent Madball record is "For the Cause," released in 2018. This album marks a powerful return for the legendary New York hardcore band, featuring their signature blend of heavy metal and hardcore punk. "For the Cause" stands out for its relentless energy, socially conscious lyrics, and hard-hitting riffs. The album includes guest appearances by notable artists such as Ice-T from Body Count and Steve Whale from The Business, adding depth and diversity to their sound. Tracks like "Rev Up," "Old Fashioned," and the title track "For the Cause" showcase Madball's continued commitment to their roots while evolving their sound for new and longtime fans alike. Produced by Tim Armstrong of Rancid, "For the Cause" has been praised for its raw production and unfiltered intensity. Whether you're a hardcore veteran or a new listener, this record is a testament to Madball's enduring influence and passion for the heavy music scene.

Who is the original singer of Agnostic Front?

The original singer of Agnostic Front is Roger Miret. Born in Cuba and raised in New York City, Miret became the voice of Agnostic Front when the band formed in 1982. His gritty vocal style and honest, streetwise lyrics quickly set the tone for the band's aggressive and influential sound. Roger Miret's leadership and authenticity helped shape Agnostic Front into one of the most important bands in the New York hardcore scene. Over the years, his lyrics have addressed themes such as social justice, unity, resilience, and personal struggle, resonating with generations of fans. Miret's influence extends beyond Agnostic Front, as he has inspired countless musicians and continues to be an active participant in the hardcore and metal communities. As the original frontman, Roger Miret remains a legendary figure, celebrated for his contributions to hardcore music and his unwavering commitment to the movement.