Rising genre-bending alternative artist Du Malai  returns with a brand new project titled  Heart Bus Desires. This project is the follow-up to his last release  Heart Bus Despair, and continues his love-themed concept. The 6 track body of work explores emotional themes centred on self-discovery, dynamics of true love and healing after despair.

The project opens up with the uplifting flute-driven “Into Me” featuring vocalist Mike Vocalz. The production is a blend of retro afropop with some experimenatl elements underpinned by sultry melodic runs and heartfelt lyrics that centre on blossoming love. Here, the singers fantasize about their love interest and hope they are also into them as they put their true thoughts on wax. Next up is “We Were Vibing”, a solemn afrobeats/R&B number that digs deep into a love situation that seems to have gone South. Over the rich cinematic soundscape, Du Malia questions the lingering affection with lines like “I thought that me and you were good/We were vibing/Instead it seems that we were through/We were vibing/What happened? Can we vibe again?” as he wonders what went wrong. The song is quite relatable and heartfelt. This is followed by the edgy “Feelings Hard” which is made up of pulsating basslines, dark synth pads and hypnotic drum grooves. Here, Du Malai breaks free of the emotional restraints and gets some pressure off his back as he pours out his feelings. Coming to terms with the situation and his past, he reflects on the emotional games, gaslighting and toxic behaviour that have held him back and now he is taking back his power and finding his inner peace.

On the title track “Heart Bus Desire”, the singer employs an anthemic orchestral trap soundscape as his canvas. Here, he confesses his mistakes with a past lover who also seems to be hurting him. Lines like “Deep down I question my own worth/To find out in this world, now I’m causing hurt” see the singer baring his vulnerability for listeners to feel. “Desires Diary” has a solemn and ethereal vibe and sees us going into Du Malai’s diary. The final track “Groove” is an aptly titled track that also features Cornelius Turner. Here, the singers team up for a soulful duet ripe with joyful and uplifting lyrics that centre on a beautiful lady who caught their eyes and hearts.

Overall, Heart Bus Desires does what it’s supposed to do with its smooth production, alluring melodies and heartwarming and sometimes unapologetic songwriting. It’s a perfect continuation of Du Malai’s emotional music series.