When I first discovered Malaika Mfalme’s music, they were creating songs processing their grief. Their debut album Yasmin was a tribute to their late partner and an exploration of the emotions that loss triggered. It was a challenging listen, but a beautiful one. Now several years have passed and Malaika has released Unfurling, a collection of songs that reflect on their path to healing.
“Unfurling is that quiet moment when you realise you’ve survived, and you’re finally beginning to bloom again,” Malaika explained. “The word itself makes me think of plants, of finally opening after all the mess and heartbreak, realising that the waiting was actually growth.”
The opener, “Cobblestones,” is a breathtaking spoken word piece which sets the scene, explaining how Malaika needed to leave Sydney (Eora) and all the heavy emotions he felt there and travel to Germany’s capital. It naturally leads us into the EP’s first single, “Berlin,” which Malaika penned during their time in the European city. “Smoke” is another stunning spoken word piece, part letter, part poetry. “Thirteen” is bittersweet and nostalgic, giving glimpses into friendships past, the ghosts they leave behind, and the patterns we seem destined to repeat. Another gorgeous poem, “Grace,” precedes the stunning final track, “The History of Me and You.” This perfect closer honours the quiet moments shared with loved ones and the scars and stories from the past that make us who we are going forward.
Unfurling is another truly special offering from Malaika Mfalme. Through sharing their poems and songs, they share their heart. While we meet them in a place that’s not quite as raw this time around, these warm, folky tracks are every bit as moving and authentic. Set aside 18 minutes of quiet to listen to them, really listen to them, taking in the words and the way they make you feel.
Unfurling is out now. Malaika will support its release with the following shows in the coming weeks.
28 November 2025 – The Red Rattler, Eora/Sydney
29 November 2025 – The People’s Blockade Protestival @ Camp Shortland, Mulubinba/Newcastle
5 December 2025 – Smith’s Alternative, Ngambri/Canberra
6 December 2025 – Kindred Side Room, Woiwurrung and Boonwurrung Country/Footscray
Images used with permission from Hunger Digital
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