London’s rising art-punk collective Man/Woman/Chainsaw continue to expand their ambitious soundscape with their latest single MadDog, a track that both encapsulates their artistic evolution and signals an exciting new chapter. Coming off the back of their well-received Adam & Steve, MadDog sees the six-piece dive even deeper into emotional complexity and sonic experimentation.
From the opening notes, MadDog asserts itself as a composition of contrasts. The track unfolds in two distinct movements — the band themselves describe it as “the pissed off bit and the sad/nostalgic bit” — a duality that gives the song its striking depth. The first section bursts with erratic, jagged guitar riffs, an art-punk fervor that feels unhinged yet deliberate, perfectly balancing aggression and control. This unpredictability is subtly underpinned by the influence of former black midi member Seth Evans, whose deft touch helps shape the track’s dynamic ebb and flow.

As the song transitions into its more reflective half, the mood shifts seamlessly. Swelling violins and a delicate melody slowly build an almost cinematic crescendo, layering texture upon texture until the composition feels almost overwhelming in its beauty. The repeated hums of the chorus linger long after the final note, anchoring the listener in the song’s emotional core.
Lyrically, MadDog delves into the painful experience of watching a friend drift away and transform into someone unrecognizable — “losing a friend and watching them become everything you thought they wouldn’t.” It’s a universal theme of grief and change, delivered with sincerity and an edge that avoids cliché.

With MadDog, Man/Woman/Chainsaw not only solidify their reputation as one of the UK’s most exciting emerging bands but also demonstrate a maturity and ambition that promises much for their future. As they embark on a busy touring schedule across the UK and Europe, MadDog stands as a powerful testament to their evolving artistry.