Malcolm Todd’s self-titled debut album kicks off April with a wave of love and heartbreak, captured through vivid, soulful lyrics.
Malcolm Todd, born as Malcolm Hobert, is an American singer-songwriter and musician. Todd was born in Los Angeles, California and through the influences of his favorite artists, he began creating his music during the COVID-19 pandemic. Soon after, he released his first EP, “Demos Before Prom,” consisting of songs he produced during high school. Since then, Todd has worked on several projects, including “Sweet Boy” and “Shower Shoes.” Additionally, he’s been able to open for musician Omar Apollo on the North American leg of Apollo’s “God Said No” World Tour in 2024.
“My big influences when I was in high school were like Steve Lacy and Omar Apollo and Dominic Fike, Rex Orange County,” said Todd in an interview with Baylor Lariat. “They influenced me a lot to start playing music in high school, and then from there I just grew whatever my sound was supposed to be.”
“Malcolm Todd” was released on April 4 with 14 tracks and a total running time of 37 minutes. This alternative indie pop album is produced by producers Charlie Ziman, Jonah Cochran and Malcolm Todd himself. Additionally, the album includes one feature from Omar Apollo in the song “Bleed.”
Inspired by his own experiences surrounding love, breakup and friendship, he incorporates these themes and concepts constantly into his music. However, throughout his work, no matter the influence, authenticity and satisfaction matter the most to him. This authenticity shines bright in his work, especially throughout the album, making his music much more enjoyable to listen to.
“I’m trying to be present and just do what I naturally would do,” said Todd in an interview with Atwood Magazine. “I want to be myself and try not to be overly influenced by things, you know? I’m letting my music and performance be instinctual and what Malcolm would want to do right now.”
Throughout the album, Todd doesn’t shy away from being his most vulnerable self, showing his emotions prominently and proudly. From the first track on the album, consisting of a peaceful, reflective song “Harry Styles,” to the last track of the album, “I’ll Come Back For You,” containing a mournful, vulnerable, Todd perfectly depicts the feeling of vulnerable emotions in the album.
“I’m trying to figure out new things about myself, and writing and sharing music with new people is my means of doing that,” said Todd in an interview with Atwood Magazine.
Of all the songs on this album, my personal favorite is “Concrete.” “Concrete” is the 11th track on the album and is about an intense, suffocating love-hate relationship. I absolutely love how catchy the song is along with its dreamy production and emotionally vulnerable lyrics depicting such tumultuous relationships. Additionally, Todd’s vocal delivery throughout the song felt effortless giving a conversational, intimate feel to the song, making it more authentic to listen to.
Overall, this recent record has shown that Todd is a unique, authentic artist with one-of-a-kind songs such as “Florence,” “Cheer Me On” and “Walk to Class.” With fun lyrics, alternative sound and unique production, there’s no doubt that Todd’s music career will continue to rise as a star and captivate his growing fanbase with future releases.
