EXCLUSIVE: Malaki premieres Butterfly Boy with Hot Press

Today, Malaki shares with Hot Press his supremely rich EP Butterfly Boy, a collection of songs all amongst the sharpest in his growing catalog. Haunting lyrics, immersive production (via right-hand man Matthew Harris), and urgent performances make for a thrilling listen.

"This EP is really powerful stuff,” says Hot Press editor Niall Stokes. "The songs are very smart and well-written. ‘Paper Prophesies’ is a great opener. The single ‘46A’ is clever and catchy. I really like the use of radio snippets at the start of ’Scumbag’. And the 'Ring-ring-a-rosy chorus’ in ’Spreadsheets and Love Notes’ is instantly memorable. Plus, the music on this is great too.

"I’m not sure yet exactly what’s going on in the intro to ‘Gem In The Rough’, but it is an impressive noise when the drums pile in. And it's good to know that he can sing!"

Speaking on the heavy themes in the EP, Malaki tells Hot Press, “The project illuminates the complexity of my relationship with Ireland, which I think is something a lot of Irish people share." He's certainly not wrong there.

He continues, admitting that, "On good days, it can inspire me; but among those days I can also find myself feeling anger, disbelief and a sense of hopelessness. The theme of my roots along with my rootlessness is something that also plays a strong role.” This is no doubt a shared feeling. By examining the thorny relationship most of us feel with our country, Malaki strikes a chord with nearly anyone who takes the time to lend an ear.

The Butterfly Boy EP is all very impressive stuff. Malaki has huge potential. Listen without prejudice.

Out now: