Words by Luke Byatt

Welcome to Future Focus, an editorial series providing a personable glimpse into some of best music releasing in the scene. Future Focus 038 features the diverse and vibrant sounds of Mila Nile, ZOLLY, Hitch, Commandeur.

Mila Nile - Break My Heart To The Beat

Hailing initially from Sweden and now Sydney based, Mila Nile encapsulates the essence of Scandinavian Pop music in the release of ‘Break My Heart To The Beat’.

‘Break My Hear To The Beat’ blends future Funk influences with pulsating 80s basslines and 808-powered beats generating a luscious soundscape. The lyricism touches on escapism and heartbreak inspired by a turbulent time time in Mila Nile’s life. The single calls in a new era for the Sydney creative as she showcases her adept writing and artistry, honed through hours in the studio during 2020’s COVID lockdown.

With more music on the way, Mila Nile is someone I’ll be keeping a close eye on.

ZOLLY - Eyes Wide

Perth’s ZOLLY from Crooked Colours fame is back with ‘Eyes Wide’ following on from a sensational selection of singles.

An seasoned musician, the ZOLLY project has amplified the successes of Phil Slabber, with ‘Eyes Wide’ being a testament to that. With a club ready sonic there’s not surprise that ZOLLY has picked up support from industry greats like, Tommy Sunshine, Anna Lunoe and Don Diablo. The record’s propulsive production is set to capitalise on project’s already recognisable name; further cementing Slabber within the domestic and international dance scene. ‘Eyes Wide’ is another rambunctious record to add to ZOLLY’s arsenal of hits.

ZOLLY has certainly positioned himself as a favourite and I can’t wait to hear what’s to come from this prolific act in 2021.

Hitch - How You Like It

With Melbourne out of lockdown, it’s time to celebrate with Hitch’s new single ‘How You Like It’.

‘How You Like It’ is one of a few eclectic House records that have crossed my radar in recent months. The off kilter take on the genre is dynamic in its implementation, with Hitch opting in for a Trap and Bass blend. The amalgamation of diverse sonic styles creates a production environment rife with experimentation and eclectic elements. This hybrid has allowed of Hitch to flaunt his production prowess in ‘How You Like It’. This exploratory take on composition caught the attention of Don Diablo’s label Hexagon, who signed the track.

Hitch is certainly a up and coming key player in the dance scene and I’m eager to see what else he has in store.

Commandeur - Numb (Feat. Genes)

Commandeur has been at the forefront of the global music scene for a while now with his multi-dimensional career. The release of ‘Numb’ featuring Genes is another check in the book of accomplishments.

‘Numb’ is a quintessential Dance Pop record expertly executed by Commandeur and Genes. With collaborations with Ollie Gabriel, KLP, a remix of Set Mo, and a slew of live performances with other acts under his belt, Commandeur isn’t a stranger to working with other artists. Genes’ mirrors this notion, accumulating over 60 million streams to her fruitful songwriting catalogue. From the bubbly beats to the surging vocals ‘Numb’ sings to the soul as much as it draws the listener to the dancefloor.

Commandeur is here to stay, and we’re thankful for that! 2021 is set to be another big year for the gifted talent.