The 20-year-old is following in the footsteps of both Kojaque and Emmet Kirwan, as part of the wave of socially conscious hip-hop artists peppering the country. Born and raised in Dublin, Malaki’s debut 2019 EP, Butterfly Boy, addressed such weighty issues as toxic masculinity, the housing crisis and mental health. Production partner Matthew Harris supplies the unique orchestration as he masterfully blends trap, alt rock and jazz.

Hear: His stunning six-track EP Butterfly Boy.

See: The ‘Paper Prophecies’ music video on YouTube.

Pick up your copy of the Hot Press Hot For 2020 issue now!