Description

His first album for seven years and the sixth solo album from the ex-Arab Strap man, is set for release on the relaunched Nude Records. In Malcolms songs hope and optimism have always existed (they were just well hidden) and catchy has always been his prime prerogative, but with the new album glimmering with heady production, this clearly shines through.

Calling upon the expertise of Glasgow-based dance producer Miaoux Miaoux, the album also features guest appearances by Beta Band/The Aliens founder Gordon Anderson aka Lone Pigeon (also creator of the albums artwork, technicolour photography and who became a soundboard for Malcolm after he moved into the cottage next door). De Rosas Martin John Henry and First Aid Kits Scott Simpson also add to the albums sonic swirl and sense of fun.

A wonky tonk fun-land of squelching synths and sweeping strings, Steps is a cosmic space ride through pitch bends and vocal manipulation whilst Information In The Voice unexpectedly drops pop RnB hip hop. But its never without feeling; take the romantic You & I or shimmering and rhapsodic Big Black Hole with its twinkling piano hook. Put together, theres a neon glow of 80s new wave, alongside smoggier shades of the Chromatics or Johnny Jewels Glass Candy.

Malcolm has always enjoyed challenging his listeners and this time around is no exception.