Mad Painter’s latest single, Debt Collector, is a masterful nod to the golden age of 1970s rock, seamlessly blending vintage influences with their unique modern blues-rock identity. Hailing from Boston, MA, the band—fronted by Alex Gitlin on vocals and keyboards and featuring Alan Hendry, Kenne Highland, Julie Gee, Sharon Crumrine, and Alan Nahabedian—delivers a sound steeped in nostalgia while carving out a fresh space in contemporary rock. Released on November 17, 2024, this track serves as an exciting preview of their forthcoming album, Island Poetry, set for release via the Italian label Epictronic. Debt Collector captures the raw energy and soulful essence of classic rock, drawing heavily from the sonic palettes of Deep Purple, Nazareth, and Alice Cooper. The track’s lyrics, penned by poet Dmitry M. Epstein, carry a biting edge and an almost theatrical flair, perfectly complementing the song’s gritty instrumentation. Themes of persistence, struggle, and determination resonate throughout, making the track both emotionally charged and relatable.
Musically, Debt Collector stands out for its richly layered arrangement, anchored by the unmistakable presence of the Hammond organ. Gitlin’s use of the organ, driven harshly through a Marshall amplifier, is a deliberate homage to the legendary Jon Lord of Deep Purple. This choice lends the track a raw, distorted, and electrifying tone that instantly transports listeners to the heyday of arena rock. Paired with Alan Nahabedian’s blistering guitar riffs and a robust rhythm section, the song creates an immersive sonic experience. The vocals are equally impressive, with Gitlin’s voice exuding both grit and theatricality. Backing vocalists Julie Gee and Sharon Crumrine add depth and texture, weaving harmonies that elevate the track’s dynamic energy. The rhythm section—Hendry’s tight drumming and Highland’s driving bass lines—provides a solid foundation, ensuring that the song remains propulsive and engaging throughout.
Recorded at Tom Hamilton’s studio in Peabody, Debt Collector boasts a production style that stays true to its retro roots without feeling dated. The balance between vintage tones and modern polish allows the track to appeal to both longtime fans of classic rock and newer audiences discovering the genre’s timeless appeal. In Debt Collector, Mad Painter has crafted a song that is both a tribute to their influences and a showcase of their originality. With its gritty lyrics, commanding instrumentation, and undeniable charm, the single offers a tantalizing glimpse of what’s to come on Island Poetry. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of 70s rock or simply appreciate well-crafted blues-rock, Debt Collector is a track you won’t want to miss.
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