As Malcolm Todd becomes more popular in the music industry, his new debut album is explored along with the themes that his music expresses.
By: Emily Drivick
Malcolm Todd reveals his vulnerability as an upcoming artist in the music industry as he gains more popularity among the masses. His self-titled debut album shows his resilience and determination to define a new version of the stereotypical “pop star.” The album opens with “Harry Styles”, which offers a new perspective on male singers. When he sings, “My arms are getting tired/ From holding back myself/ But if I’m not a Harry Styles/ They’re gonna put me on the shelf.” Men who want to make it in this industry look towards performers like Harry Styles as a prime example, and Todd exposes the hustle through this piece.
Malcolm Todd brings a different vibe from his previous EP, Sweet Boy. The new album offers a broad range of emotions, from sorrow to anger. Although this is considered an alternative album, “Make Me a Better Man” feels more bluesy compared to the other track. As Todd attempts to mend a one-sided relationship in this piece, he says “There’s something wrong about it/ All the things I do, to be the man.” No matter how hard he tries to be a better man for this woman, his efforts are wasted as she pays him no attention. Could this be tied into his fight to shape himself into the perfect musician for the world? This isn’t confirmed, but there are parallels between all of the tracks on this album that point toward his goal to make it in the music industry.
Another notable observation on this album is how some of the tracks skyrocketed his career through social media. “Chest Pain (I Love)” is a trending audio on many platforms, and his collaboration with Omar Apollo on “Bleed” attracted many listeners as well. The former explores the aftermath of losing the love of your life, hence the “symptoms of sorrow and dread,” and the latter blends the two singers’ voices beautifully on a song about vulnerability in a relationship and losing control. The line “I swear, you can take control/ Control of how my heart bleeds” provides emotional depth and desire to offer everything to this relationship.
Overall, Malcolm Todd is a promising start to Todd’s career, and he will only grow in popularity as this album receives more attention. Although this is different from his previous work, it symbolizes a transition in his art and life. This is proof that Todd is not afraid to alter his musical voice in order to explore new opportunities.
