Mad Painter’s latest single, Debt Collector, is a masterstroke of vintage rock revival, bringing to life the soul of 1970s blues-rock that feels both nostalgic, akin to a total time machine experience. This electrifying track serves as a teaser for their forthcoming third album, Island Poetry, set to release under Epictronic with global distribution. True to their deep reverence for classic rock titans like Nazareth, Deep Purple, and Alice Cooper, Debt Collector captures the essence of a bygone era while staking its claim in today’s musical landscape.
From its opening bars, Debt Collector hooks us in with a timeless, stadium-ready energy. The dynamic interplay between Alan Hendry’s textured drumming and Alan Nahabedian’s transcendental guitar lines sets a powerful tone, drawing us into its vortex of sound. The production – crisp, raw, and evocative of the early ’70s – imbues the track with authenticity. The Hammond organ, run through a Marshall amplifier in tribute to Jon Lord, adds a gritty, almost rebellious charm, elevating the song to new heights. This sonic detail not only pays homage to Deep Purple but underscores Mad Painter’s knack for fusing technical brilliance with emotive artistry.
Lyrically, the track delves into the metaphorical realm, exploring themes of accountability and existential reckoning through the lens of a literal “debt collector.” Dmitry M. Epstein’s poetic contribution enriches the narrative, blending humor and gravitas in a manner reminiscent of the Sensational Alex Harvey Band. Alex Gitlin’s evocative vocal delivery breathes life into the lyrics, oscillating between theatrical flair and heartfelt sincerity. This duality gives Debt Collector a high emotional quotient, making it resonate on both intellectual and visceral levels.
Midway through the track, the guitar solo explodes like a sonic firework – mind-bending, electrifying, and utterly transformative. Nahabedian’s performance channels the spirit of legendary rock solos while carving out his own identity, creating a moment that feels both familiar and groundbreaking. The backing vocals from Julie Gee and Sharon Crumrine add depth and texture, amplifying the track’s theatrical essence.
One cannot help but imagine Debt Collector as part of a modern rock opera – a sequel to The Rocky Horror Picture Show seems almost inevitable. Its flamboyant energy, coupled with its ability to evoke cinematic imagery, places it squarely in the realm of cult classics. The song is theatrical without being overwrought, maintaining a delicate balance between grandeur and grit.
Debt Collector is a statement – a bold reaffirmation of Mad Painter’s place in the pantheon of modern classic rock bands. The band’s ability to weave vintage influences into a modern tapestry while pushing the boundaries of creativity makes this track a standout. With its high-octane energy, metaphorical depth, and jaw-dropping instrumentation, Debt Collector is a must-listen for anyone craving the electrifying spirit of 1970s rock in a contemporary package.
As Mad Painter marches toward the release of Island Poetry, one thing is clear: the debt they owe to the rock gods of yore has been paid in full – and with interest. We have added the opus to our New Music Spotlight playlist, as well as our TIMELESS playlist, whilst we await the incoming album!