USA
Malachi Rivers Unveils Spoken Word Album 'No Signal, Vol. 1'
For readers unfamiliar with spoken word, it is a form of oral poetry distinguished by its narrative power and vivid interpretation.
Los Angeles – The multifaceted artist Malachi Rivers, three-time winner of the Indie Series Awards for his acting and dramatic writing, releases his highly anticipated spoken word album, No Signal, Vol. 1, now available on all streaming platforms.
This deeply personal and decidedly innovative project redefines the boundaries of spoken word, offering powerful storytelling around themes such as hope, healing and vulnerability. No Signal, Vol. 1 presents itself as a musical and poetic journey, where poetry combines with sophisticated soundscapes, affirming Rivers' position as a visionary creative voice.
For readers who are not familiar with the Spoken Word, it is a form of oral poetry distinguished by its narrative power and lively interpretation.
A mastery of spoken word and prestigious collaborations
Rivers' cadence, interpretation and lyrical virtuosity constitute a true masterclass in the art of spoken word. The album brings together a exceptional casting :
- Doodlebug (Digable Planets), Hip-Hop legend and Grammy® winner
- The poetess Queen Sheba, two-time Grammy® nominee
- Tamela Hedström, Latin Grammy® nominee
- The actress Rutina Wesley, seven-time NAACP Image Award nominee
- The legendary soul voices Sy Smith and Deborah Bond
- …and many more
Production is provided by Malcolm Hyneman (Cleveland) and Owain Kelly (UK), bringing rich and unique sonic textures to each track.
A career marked by excellence and collaborations
Originally from Prince George's County, Maryland, Malachi Rivers is an actor, writer, producer, and spoken-word artist. Trained in New York City, he has performed on some of the world's most prestigious stages, including the Kennedy Center, The Blue Note, NPR, and the Apollo Theater. Known for his powerful acting in projects like the Oscar-winning film Mank by David Fincher and the series Poz Roz, Rivers is dedicated to telling diverse and meaningful stories, fostering empathy and celebrating the resilience of the human spirit.
His spoken word was also a central element of the album. Open Reel Deck of the jazzman Marcus Strickland, nominated for the GRAMMYs, alongside the virtuoso trumpeter Keyon Harrold, whose album Foreverland was nominated for a GRAMMY Award for Best Alternative Jazz Album in 2025. Rivers' contribution was critically acclaimed, with All About Jazz calling him the album's "striking center."
In a world saturated with noise, No Signal, Vol. 1 reminds us that authentic art can cut through the crowd, heal, and inspire. This album isn't just meant to be heard: it's meant to be felt.
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