Jackson Colt unleashes a storm of cinematic gothic rock with his new single and video “Van Helsing”. The track blends the theatrical weight of gothic metal with the adrenaline of 80s-inspired synth power, unfolding like a dark fantasy film told through sound.
Choirs rise, haunted organs linger, and blazing guitars fuel a narrative that feels both supernatural and deeply human. At the centre of it all, a tolling bell marks Hallowed Ground – a symbol of belonging, identity, and the search for home.
Jackson Colt notes that “Van Helsing” allowed him to dive deeper into his fascination with the unseen world. Rooted in his lifelong love of horror and fantasy cinema, the song explores where the supernatural meets rock. It’s not a recreation of existing mythology, but rather a world inspired by it – a shadow realm sitting just out of sight.
At its heart, “Van Helsing” follows a woman fighting her demons. The “monsters” represent the challenges she encounters, while she embodies the Van Helsing spirit: courage, purity, and unbreakable resolve. Jackson explains that the bell heard throughout symbolises Hallowed Ground – a haven she longs for as she confronts the darkness within. Choirs, organs, and even a touch of theremin weave the atmosphere of this gothic universe.
With drums, bass, keys, layered backing vocals, and full production by Mark Haze, “Van Helsing” expands Jackson Colt’s guitar-driven style into something bold and cinematic. To honour his 80s influences, Jackson layered a synth bass beneath the main riff, while Mark’s production deepened the track’s mood and texture, shaping a world both powerful and immersive.
“Van Helsing” channels everything Jackson loves – gothic aesthetics, classic rock power, and the pulse of 80s metal – into a sound that feels timeless but new. The single reaffirms his place as one of South Africa’s most exciting, imaginative modern rock artists.
Check out the video below:
Stream “Van Helsing” HERE.
More info about Jackson Colt
Jackson Colt is a South African artist and rock band breathing new life into the energy of 80s rock. Known for massive hooks, melodic riffs, and fiery solos, they blend nostalgia with a modern edge.
The journey began when Jackson picked up his first guitar at nine years old. Influenced early on by Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Who, and Grand Funk Railroad, he grew up surrounded by the classics – Deep Purple, AC/DC, Def Leppard – which shaped his musical foundation.
Everything changed when Jackson discovered Eddie Van Halen. Inspired by guitar giants like David Gilmour, Slash, George Lynch, and Yngwie Malmsteen, he committed fully to mastering his craft. Metal influences from Alexi Laiho and Jeff Loomis added depth and intensity to his style, forming the backbone of his distinctive sound.
On stage, Jackson Colt channels the electricity of 80s arena rock. Backed by bassist Dean Gerber, drummer Matthew Safi, and rhythm guitarist Piet Snyman, the band delivers high-energy performances that connect instantly with audiences.
Working with South African heavyweights Dale Schnettler and Mark Haze has taken Jackson’s artistry even further. Their guidance and production have helped refine his sound, resulting in a run of successful singles with global traction.
Since debuting in 2021 with Poison and Angels of Rock, Jackson Colt has built a catalogue that continues to win praise worldwide. Echoes reached the top of the Mix FM SA Top 40 and gained attention across the Americas, Europe, Australia, and beyond. Tracks like Shake Your Body and Reckless Love blend irresistible groove with classic rock attitude.
He has also released instrumental shred tracks such as Monsoon, featuring advanced guitar techniques including multi-finger tapping and sweeping arpeggios.
Their latest release, “Van Helsing”, pushes deeper into gothic rock and metal while keeping the core Jackson Colt identity intact. With Mark Haze handling production, mixing, and mastering, the song layers synth bass, atmospheric keys, and pounding rhythms to deliver a dark, expansive sonic experience.
As Jackson Colt continues toward a full-length debut album, the project stands poised to reach even greater heights – carrying the fire of 80s rock into a bold, modern era.
Watch this space for updates in the Music Videos category on Running Wolf’s Rant.
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2 Comments
Super cool, thank you very much!
Thank you so much!