Mad Painter’s latest single, “Debt Collector,” from their upcoming album Island Poetry, is a spirited throwback to the blues-rock sound of the early 1970s. With Tom Hamilton’s production at his Peabody studio, the track captures the essence of iconic influences like Deep Purple, Nazareth, and Alice Cooper, while maintaining the band’s distinctive tongue-in-cheek storytelling style, written by poet Dmitry M. Epstein, reminiscent of the Sensational Alex Harvey Band.
The song kicks off with thumping drums, quickly joined by gritty, melodic guitars playing a riff that hooks listeners right away. The energetic rhythm lays the foundation for Alex Gitlin’s soulful and vibrant lead vocals, which soar with a raw enthusiasm that’s both commanding and infectious. Behind him, harmonies of Julie Gee and Sharon Crumrine croon and vocalize, adding a rich, sonorous edge that contrasts beautifully with the rugged guitar tones.
The instrumental dynamics are equally compelling, with organ and guitar dominating the soundscape. A churning guitar solo toward the end provides a climactic burst of energy, concluding the track with an engaging wall of sound that leaves a lasting impression.
Epstein’s storytelling approach infuses the track with a sense of drama and intrigue, seamlessly aligning with the band’s penchant for vivid, narrative-driven rock songs.
Having previously released two albums, their forthcoming Island Poetry promises to expand their legacy. For fans of 1970s rock or anyone seeking music with soul and grit, Mad Painter’s latest single is a must-listen that sets high expectations for the rest of Island Poetry.
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Review by: Naomi Joan