Malcolm Todd Brings Stunning Vocals to House of Blues

On May 2nd, Malcolm Todd and DJ opener Sophie Gray brought positivity to the House of Blues as they hit the second stop of the “Wholesome Rockstar” tour. 

As the Houston sky drizzled with rain, it was around 8 pm when DJ Sophie Gray took center stage. With two banners between her saying “I <3 SG,” she glowed amidst the multicolored stage lights. Her DJ mixes included a montage of Generation Z party anthems with a mix of 2000s pop. Gray played songs such as “Looking for the Hoes (Ain’t My Fault)” by Sexyy Red, “NOKIA” by Drake, “Deli” by Ice Spice, and “FNF” by GloRilla. My favorite mixes included hits from Soulja Boy such as “Kiss Me Thru The Phone” and “Crank That (Soulja Boy),” and a lovely transition to Miley Cyrus’ Bangerz era classic “23.” Overall, the set brought high dance-able energy to the audience, making Gray an ideal opener.

It was after 9 pm when Malcolm Todd took the stage. He appeared with his shaved head, bright red shirt, and jeans with the song “Harry Styles.” He even changed the line to “the people love me here in Houston,” bringing the crowd to a roaring cheer. Transitioning to songs such as “Make Me a Better Man” and “Bleed,” Todd joined the cheerful crowd by singing in perfect pitch. He even played more songs from the newly released album Malcolm Todd, such as “Doll” and “Who’s the Fool,” which he states is about his desire to focus on music instead of high school. Furthermore, a funny moment occurred when someone threw a shirt of Queen Elizabeth, and he explained how the Queen was his crush and how she may rest in peace.

Nonetheless, the set’s highlight remained in his hits from his freshman album Sweet Boy. With bright pink lights, pretty piano keys, funky bass lines, and Todd’s vocals, songs such as “Earrings” and “Mr. Incorrect” remain my favorites. Another energy shift occurs when the band performs covers of the songs “Kiss Me” and an acappella version of “Our House.” The covers showcased Todd’s vocal range and band members, as all three instrumentalists gathered around the mic, harmonizing in perfect key. Todd explains that the band is not just a band he hired for a tour, but his best friends, and the passion gleams in their performance. 

The end of the set concluded with gritty guitar solos and a blue light that emulated a night sky. The crowd roared for the song “Chest Pain (I Love),” and as the band concluded the song and walked off the stage. The crowd did not anticipate an encore. As some people were ready to leave, the band reappeared on stage and played “I Do” and “I’ll Come Back for You.” With the fans wanting more, Todd ends the set with his hit song “Roommates,” concluding the show on a high note. 

Overall, between both Todd and the group’s stunning vocals, indie rock instrumentals, and positive energy. Malcolm Todd’s future remains bright as his sophomore album demonstrates his skills while elevating his style. With this being his second tour stop, he will continue spreading their musical passion across the US, making him a must-see for modern indie rock and pop fans.