Malcolm Aiken is an award-winning trumpeter, producer based in Vancouver, Canada. Malcolm is known for his warm, lyrical sound that traverses the sounds of jazz, world, and pop music.
As a performer, Malcolm has shared the stage with notable artists such as Chucho Valdez, Noel Gallagher (Oasis), John Hammond Jr. Steven Page (barenaked ladies), Jim Byrnes, Steve Dawson, Jimmy Bosch and David Hidalgo (Los Lobos). He has played at major events, including the 2010 Winter Olympics, and for distinguished figures like the Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu. His extensive touring has taken him to Hong Kong, China, Mexico, Japan, and the Netherlands.
Malcolm’s music projects include his work with his quartet, where he has developed a unique sound influenced by jazz, soul, and hip hop. His new 2025 album “Northburn” is a testament to this innovative blend, featuring deep grooves, ambient textures, and vintage synths, reminiscent of artists like Bob James and Miles Davis, with modern beats inspired by J Dilla and Flying Lotus.
Name:
Malcolm Aiken
Genre:
Jazz
Founded:
1999
# of Albums:
2010 Paper Star
2016 New Futures
2025 Northburn (coming June 2025)
Latest Album:
Northburn (2025)
Favourite musician growing up:
Miles Davis
Favourite musician now:
Roy Hargrove
Guilty pleasure song:
Rock with You (Michael Jackson)
Live show ritual:
Coffee!
Favourite local musician:
Jay Esplana
EP or LP?
SINGLE!
Early bird or night owl?
Both. It’s a Gemini thing, haha
Road or studio?
Road
Any shows or albums coming up?
New album “Northburn” coming June 2025
Where can we follow you?
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Rapid Fire Local Questions:
What is your favourite local restaurant?
Vijs! The best.
What is your favourite street in your city and why?
East 5th and Victoria. Where I lived on 3 separate times in my life.
What is your favourite park in your city and why?
Sandy Cove – a perfect spot for an ocean dip!
What is your favourite music venue in your city?
Prophecy 🙂 great vibe and awesome people. Shout out Simone and Matteo and the whole team!
What is your favourite music store in your city?
Highlife Records on Commercial Drive. An institution since I was a kid. Dennis and Kevin are legends!
