SINGLE REVIEW: Mapache - The New Deal
London’s Mapache make a triumphant statement with ‘The New Deal,’ a riotous blend of attitude, melody, and raw punk energy. Formed by ex-members of Johnny Throttle, The Gaggers, and The Ten-O-Sevens, the band brings together an impressive pedigree to craft a sound that feels as vital as it does familiar, steeped in the rebellious essence of 70s punk.
With its swagger-filled delivery, the track recalls the punch of The Clash and the melodic finesse of the Buzzcocks, but Mapache inject their own spark into the formula. The vocals bristle with confidence and a gritty edge, striking the perfect balance between sneering defiance and charismatic hooks. Gang vocals bolster the chorus with a unified shout that’s impossible not to join in with, amplifying the track’s anthemic feel.
Instrumentally, ‘The New Deal’ is a powerhouse. Hammering drums keep a relentless pace, while big, swaggering riffs lay the groundwork for moments of brilliance—like the immersive guitar solo, which feels both loose and expertly timed, cutting through the chaos with flair. The shuffling groove adds an unexpected layer of texture, while eruptive drum breaks provide adrenaline-soaked spikes of energy that keep the momentum thrilling.
This is punk that’s raw but not rough, confident but not complacent. Mapache capture the best of the genre’s golden age while carving out their own identity. With ‘The New Deal,’ they’ve delivered a track that’s as immersive as it is electrifying. Every hook, riff, and break feels deliberate yet natural—a perfect storm of energy and attitude. It’s a modern punk anthem, and I can’t get enough of it!
