Indra Aziz
Malcom have officially released their highly anticipated EP, "Step Out Of The Light," a collection that signals a significant evolution for the Manchester-based four-piece. The EP, now available in full, showcases the band’s distinctive alt-rock sound, infused with a raw energy and a clear artistic vision that has been gaining traction within the UK’s vibrant music scene. This release follows a period of intense creative output and a series of impactful live performances, including a standout set at The Great Escape, Brighton’s premier new music showcase.
The band, a cohesive unit comprising frontman Caz Donaghy on vocals, twin brothers Evan and Max Morgan on guitars, and Alfie Summersgill on drums, has been meticulously crafting their sound. Donaghy, originally from Belfast, brings a compelling vocal presence that anchors the band’s dynamic instrumental arrangements. The Morgan twins provide a formidable guitar attack, while Summersgill’s drumming forms the powerful rhythmic backbone. Together, they have cultivated a reputation for delivering an intense and engaging live experience.
"Step Out Of The Light" was conceived and recorded over a concentrated two-week period in a "an underground studio in the centre of Manchester," as the band described. This focused environment allowed Malcom to "really escape from reality and focus on writing and recording our songs." The EP’s title itself, "Step Out Of The Light," serves as a thematic declaration of intent, reflecting the band’s commitment to forging their own sonic identity rather than conforming to prevailing trends. "This EP…is about finding our own sound and coming forward with something that is truly us! Not just following the trends," the band stated.
The production of the EP was overseen by David Radahd-Jones, a collaborator whose work has been instrumental in shaping the final output. The EP features four tracks that represent some of Malcom’s most striking and dynamic material to date. The collection opens with the fan-favorite "Hard Working Blues," a testament to their blues-rock roots and energetic delivery. This is followed by "God Ain’t Gonna Forgive Me," "Running," and "Silver Tongues," each offering a distinct facet of the band’s evolving sound. These tracks demonstrate a maturity in songwriting and a willingness to experiment while remaining true to their core alt-rock ethos.
A Deep Dive into "Step Out Of The Light"
The EP’s tracklist is strategically curated to showcase Malcom’s multifaceted talent. "Hard Working Blues," the opener, immediately immerses the listener in a powerful, riff-driven soundscape. Its raw energy and Donaghy’s potent vocals set a high bar for the EP, hinting at the band’s live prowess. "God Ain’t Gonna Forgive Me" delves into more introspective territory, exploring themes of regret and consequence with a driving rhythm section and intricate guitar work. "Running" offers a more anthemic quality, with a propulsive beat and soaring melodies that invite singalongs. Finally, "Silver Tongues" provides a nuanced conclusion, showcasing the band’s ability to blend subtle instrumentation with impactful lyrical content.
The band’s influences are acknowledged openly, with Malcom citing "bands we love littered throughout like The Black Keys, Dr Feelgood and The Killers." However, they are quick to emphasize their originality, which they achieve through distinctive elements such as "the raucous harmonica and unique guitar tones cutting through." These specific sonic choices serve to differentiate Malcom from their contemporaries, creating a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly novel. The inclusion of harmonica, in particular, is a nod to classic blues and rock traditions, reinterpreted through a contemporary alt-rock lens.
Manchester’s Evolving Music Landscape
Malcom’s emergence is situated within the broader context of Manchester’s consistently fertile music scene. The city has a storied history of producing groundbreaking artists across various genres, from the post-punk era of Joy Division and The Smiths to the Britpop explosion of Oasis and the more recent indie-rock successes. Manchester’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to foster a supportive yet competitive environment for emerging talent. The city’s venues, independent radio stations, and dedicated fan base create a crucial ecosystem for bands to develop and thrive.
The Great Escape festival, where Malcom recently made a significant impression, is a pivotal event in the UK’s new music calendar. Held annually in Brighton, it provides a platform for hundreds of emerging artists to showcase their work to an audience of industry professionals, including A&R representatives, booking agents, and music journalists, as well as dedicated music fans. Malcom’s performance at this year’s festival, described as having "blown away the crowds," signifies their readiness to move beyond local acclaim and reach a national and international audience. Their ability to captivate a festival crowd is a strong indicator of their live performance capabilities and the universal appeal of their music.
BBC Introducing’s Endorsement
The band’s inclusion in the "tipped by BBC Introducing" category further validates their growing prominence. BBC Introducing is a crucial initiative for supporting new and unsigned artists across the United Kingdom. Through its regional and national platforms, it provides invaluable airtime, live performance opportunities, and exposure to a broad listenership. Being championed by BBC Introducing suggests that Malcom has met a certain standard of quality and originality that resonates with the network’s discerning taste-makers. This endorsement often serves as a significant stepping stone for emerging artists, opening doors to further opportunities and wider recognition.
The Production Process: A Focused Approach
The decision to record the EP over a two-week period in a dedicated studio space underscores a commitment to focused and intensive creative work. This concentrated approach, away from the distractions of daily life, is a common strategy employed by artists aiming to capture a specific energy and vision. The "underground studio" setting likely provided an intimate and experimental atmosphere, conducive to pushing creative boundaries. The collaboration with producer David Radahd-Jones during this period would have been crucial in refining the band’s sonic ideas and translating them into a polished final product. Producers often play a vital role in challenging artists, suggesting new directions, and ensuring the technical quality of the recordings.
Broader Implications and Future Outlook
The release of "Step Out Of The Light" is positioned as the commencement of a "huge summer" for Malcom. This suggests a strategic plan for sustained promotional activity, including potential tours, festival appearances, and further single releases. The EP’s successful reception could pave the way for a debut album or further EPs that build on the established sound and momentum.
The band’s stated ambition to "find our own sound and coming forward with something that is truly us!" indicates a long-term vision centered on artistic integrity. In an industry often characterized by fleeting trends, Malcom’s commitment to originality is a significant asset. Their ability to blend influences from established artists with unique sonic elements like harmonica and distinctive guitar tones positions them as a band with the potential for longevity.
The success of Malcom, and indeed many other emerging artists from Manchester, highlights the continued importance of regional music hubs in nurturing and developing talent. These scenes provide the essential infrastructure and community support that allows bands to hone their craft and gain vital early experience. As Malcom steps further into the spotlight with "Step Out Of The Light," their journey will be closely watched as a barometer of the current health and future direction of alt-rock in the UK. The EP serves not only as a collection of songs but as a manifesto for a band determined to make its indelible mark on the contemporary music landscape.
The EP’s release also signifies a broader trend within the music industry where independent artists are increasingly able to produce and distribute high-quality music, leveraging digital platforms and targeted promotional strategies. Malcom’s success in gaining traction through channels like BBC Introducing and festival appearances demonstrates the evolving pathways to recognition for emerging musicians. Their narrative underscores the power of authenticity and a strong artistic vision in cutting through the noise of a competitive global music market.
The future for Malcom appears bright, with "Step Out Of The Light" serving as a powerful declaration of their artistic intent and capabilities. As they continue to evolve and expand their reach, their contribution to the vibrant tapestry of Manchester’s music scene, and the broader UK alt-rock landscape, is set to grow.
Photo Credit: Barnaby Fairley
