Album Review: Split by Kingons The Maxies – A Punk Rock Gem from 2014
Released in 2014 under It's Alive Records, Split by Kingons The Maxies is a raw and energetic punk rock album that delivers exactly what fans of the genre crave: unfiltered emotion, gritty instrumentation, and lyrics that stick to your brain like gum on a hot sidewalk. Hailing from the US, this band brings together two distinct halves on one record, each showcasing their unique style while staying true to the rebellious spirit of punk.
The first three tracks are helmed by the core lineup of Mad Maxie (vocals), Sticks Maxie (drums), Donnie Debauchery Maxie (guitar), Android Maxie (lead guitar, producer, engineer), and Maximum Maxie (lead vocals). Tracks four and five shift gears slightly with contributions from Nakata on bass and chorus duties, as well as production work from Mr. Seki. This dual approach gives the album a dynamic feel—like flipping between two favorite radio stations where both play bangers.
One standout track is "It Ain't No Fun." From the opening riff, it grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. The guitar work here is relentless, courtesy of Donnie Debauchery Maxie and Android Maxie, creating an infectious energy that makes sitting still impossible. Mad Maxie’s vocal delivery hits hard, blending snarl and melody in equal measure. What really sticks with me about this song isn’t just its punchy hooks but how it captures the frustration of being stuck in a rut—a universal feeling amplified by pounding drums and razor-sharp lyrics. You can almost picture the mosh pit forming as soon as the first chord rings out.
Another unforgettable moment comes with "It's Too Damn Hot Where You Come From." Here, Nakata steps into the spotlight, adding depth with his basslines and backing vocals. Produced by Mr. Seki, this track has a looser, more chaotic vibe compared to the earlier songs. It’s messy in all the right ways, capturing the sweaty intensity of summer nights spent screaming along to live music. There’s something cathartic about the way the band leans into dissonance without losing cohesion. By the time the final note fades, you’re left breathless—and maybe a little dehydrated.
The artwork, handled by Tim "The Cock" Cochran, perfectly complements the album’s aesthetic: bold, loud, and unapologetic. Meanwhile, mastering by Luke McNeill ensures every crash cymbal and shouted lyric cuts through with clarity, even amidst the controlled chaos.
What strikes me most about Split is how authentic it feels. In an era when so much music seems polished to death, Kingons The Maxies embrace imperfection and turn it into strength. These aren’t musicians chasing perfection; they’re storytellers spilling their guts over power chords and breakneck tempos.
If I had to nitpick, I’d say the transition between the two halves could feel jarring for some listeners—but honestly? That unpredictability might be the album’s secret weapon. Life itself ain’t smooth sailing, so why should rock ‘n’ roll pretend otherwise?
In the end, Split reminds us why punk rock matters—it’s not about technical wizardry or pristine production values. It’s about raw honesty, community, and making noise that resonates. And yeah, okay, fine—it also makes for one helluva soundtrack to blast while flipping off traffic jams.
