1 2 WATCH: Malaki
Next up in our 1 2 WATCH series is maverick Irishman Malaki, who has just introduced himself through the deftly executed and emotionally potent EP ‘Don’t Forget to Take Your Medicine’.
One of Ireland’s 2021 breakthrough talents, Malaki has captured the consideration of tastemakers and listeners alike, offering a raw, artistic and often poignant sound. Unlike many within the realms of hip hop, Malaki celebrates his vulnerability. Refreshingly conscientious and cathartic about his own mental health, the Dubliner merges emotional expression with social commentary in his striking writing.
The rapper began the run up to his EP release in striking style with the release of ‘The Riddler’, a jaw-dropping, vigorous effort that showcased his impressive technical skill and ear for a killer flow. The second single ‘Head Highs’ was a stark contrast to ‘The Riddlers’ dark atmosphere and robust energy, instead opting for a gorgeously introspective jazz-hop approach that struck a most radiant chord. Malaki’s EP ‘Don’t Forget to Take Your Medicine’ dropped on the 2nd September; a six track adventure into the depths of Malaki’s sprawling consciousness, the rapper weaves through intricate rhyme schemes and conflicted emotions. The project feels like a testament to both his character and his talent, and looks set to elevate Malaki’s step on hip hops winding staircase.
I discussed the new EP, amongst other topics, with the man himself.
Who are your inspirations?
My inspirations musically stem mainly from performers such as Michael Jackson and Freddie Mercury. I've always thought it’s one thing to be impressed by musicians through speakers or headphones but it’s another to be taken visually and musically with a performer on Stage.
How has being from Dublin affected your music and your integration into the UK music scene?
From a young age I didn’t have many artists from Dublin I admired or even listened to, and because of that, looked across the pond for inspiration. Many artists such as Nas from New York or Loyle Carner from south London influenced me musically and as an artist to really be myself as my confidence grew. Fortunately now I can say there are bigger and better artists in Dublin I look up to. Sometimes all it takes is to look closer rather than further. But we must allow for artists to grow however they see fit, but to never forget your roots.
Your new EP ‘DFTTYM’ is brilliant - eclectic and striking. Talk me through the main themes and motifs of the new project.
I began the first track ‘Calvero’ whilst living in London during the height of the pandemic. All I had was time and a microphone so I got writing. I was aware of the darkness within my past and found it difficult to project that musically through Malaki's eyes so I created an alter ego named ‘Calvero’ after watching a 1950's film starring Charlie Chaplin covered in makeup similar to Calvero. Once I put on that mask, inspired by “the limelight” and many other dark films and music, I was able to descend into the darkness to begin my exploration of an alter ego. One month later I had finished the lyrics and motive, concepts and lyrics for the EP. All it needed now was music and visuals.
Your lyricism is often raw and vivid in its authenticity. How important to you is portraying your true psyche through your writing?
It’s extremely important to me. Once I am secure within my vulnerability, being able to reveal an open wound to the world is one of the most powerful things a human being can do. I am honest, heartfelt and vulnerable. Something I feel humans lack, not just artists.I find it easier to portray myself through the art sometimes rather than speaking about it. But I am learning to grow.
I know you’ve said that you wrote the project at a dark time in your life. Is writing the best way for you to express yourself, self-assess situations, and come out the other end a stronger person?
Yes, as I feel writing for me stemmed from a therapeutic standpoint when I was younger. It eventually grew to something greater but I still use it everyday as a way of dealing with my thoughts, expressions and emotions. No matter how small.
What’s next for you?
‘Don’t Forget to Take Your Medicine’ has allowed me so much growth as an artist and a human. I would like to move onto the next step in my career which I feel is an album. I’ve always been thinking about concepts since I was young. I guess now it’s just putting my head down and seeing what comes out.
‘DFTTYM’ is available now on all major streaming platforms. Listen below.