Jackson Colt returns with a surge of cinematic gothic rock on his new single and video, ‘Van Helsing’. Blending the drama of gothic metal with 80s-inspired synth power, the track unfolds like a dark fantasy film through sound. Choirs rise, haunted organs echo, and fiery guitars drive the heartbeat of a story that feels both mythical and deeply human. At its centre, a haunting bell tolls for Hallowed Ground, symbolising the fight for belonging and the search for home.

Speaking about the inspiration behind the song, Jackson says that with ‘Van Helsing’ he wanted to explore a deeper gothic style where the supernatural meets rock. He explains that his lifelong fascination with horror and fantasy films and the mysteries of the unseen world inspired him to create something that feels like another realm hidden within the shadows of our own.

At its core, ‘Van Helsing’ follows a woman who faces her demons and refuses to fall. The monsters represent the struggles she encounters, while she embodies the spirit of Van Helsing, not as a direct reference to the fictional character, but as a metaphor for purity, courage and strength in the face of adversity. Jackson adds that the bell in the track represents Hallowed Ground, a place of safety and belonging that the character seeks throughout her journey. The inclusion of choirs, haunting organs, and a touch of theremin helps to build a gothic world where she battles her inner demons.

Featuring drums, bass, keys, layered backing vocals, and full production, mixing, and mastering by Mark Haze, ‘Van Helsing’ merges raw power with cinematic depth. Mark’s production expands Jackson Colt’s signature guitar-driven sound into a bold, immersive world that captures both intensity and emotion. Jackson notes that to tie in his signature sound, he layered a synth bass with the main riff as a nod to his 1980s influences, while Mark’s production brought the depth and texture that transformed the song into a dark and immersive fantasy experience.

With ‘Van Helsing’, Jackson Colt channels his lifelong love of gothic imagery, classic rock, and the electrifying pulse of 80s metal into a sound that feels timeless yet fresh. The result is an anthemic and visually evocative release that confirms his place as one of South Africa’s most exciting and visionary modern rock artists.

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