There are a vast amount of hardcore bands that are floating around at the moment portraying a ‘boys club’ attitude. I’m not really into all these aspects of hardcore instead enjoy music that delivers positive messages and stands for something worth promoting. One band that I have a lot of respect and time for is Kingdom who definitely fights for what they believe in. I feel this band is generally underrated here in the United Kingdom which is a shame as they are such a quality band. Hailing from Philadelphia USA Kingdom is a Vegan Straight Edge hardcore band who plays a variety of heavy styled hardcore with some bold and important messages. Threads is their new mind-blowing 4 track EP that is sticking to the attitude that has previously been explored in the Self Titled, 9 Lives and The Rage That Guides however incorporates new controversial concepts including the impact of rape and issues regarding the law.
The album kicks off with a song called Harbringer that starts the EP off with a nice slow heavy feel to it and then wastes no time picking up the pace into a steady moshing riff with some beefy guitar work. Although bands always have the well known mosh parts that people are expecting, Kingdom manage to fit them in perfectly with their song structures and at the best times which makes the songs more energetic and entertaining. This first song is a sinister story relating to the controversial topic of rape and bringing justice to people who carry this act out. This song is very strong and compelling and is a theme that needs to be brought to people’s attention.
Following on from this is the song Regenerate which kicks in straight away with another intense flurry of instrumental rage. This song is very fast paced and contains some rapid tempo drum beats and steady guitar riffs mixed in with some slower heavy parts which work perfectly together. This song covers animal exploitation and the personal choice to be against these acts which is also covered in the previous releases. Wax and Wayne contains some raw powered vocals which you can really sense the amount of emotion and energy put into this. Although this song is short it is memorable and towards the middle of the track it has a catchy old school feel to it, giving it a nice classic touch. Slight of Badge is the last song on the EP combining yet even more fresh heavy hardcore. This is the song about the misuse of power in the law and takes in the classic All Cops Are Bastards attitude which is fantastic. I wish this EP contained more than 4 songs!
Kingdom has been one of my favourite bands for ages now and I think they cover a vast amount of important positive choices and lifestyle choices which I participate in so I can really relate to this band. They have a unique sound and I think they deserve as much support as possible. As with their other releases Threads is definitely up there with the best. Pick up their record here, it comes with some pretty rad artwork and because I pre-ordered it I got an awesome tee and limited edition vinyl as shown below.
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