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 052 features the diverse and vibrant sounds of Taka Perry x Leon Fanourakis, Kumarion, ASHWARYA and Jarrod Jeremiah.

Taka Perry x Leon Fanourakis - 1234

If you’ve been following Futuremag Music for some time, Taka Perry would be a familiar name. Now the Sydney based creative has teamed up with Japanese MC, Leon Fanourakis for ‘1234’.

‘1234’ is a rich electronic Hip Hop hybrid that elevates the contemporary music landscape. The single is almost entirely sung in Japanese, with Leon leading the charge. Taka Perry’s additional verse is an appreciated vocal debut. His previous records have only showcased his prowess in composition and instrumentation; now the accomplished producer can add “vocalist” to his arsenal. Another welcomed inclusion, I alluded to earlier is the use of Japanese lyricism. English can be limiting in its creative output; the incorporation of another language (in this case Japanese) cultivates renewed artful opportunities.

On a closing note… With the explosion of Korean representation in Western media, a wider audience is gradually acknowledging the vast world of Asian artistry. I hope society’s interest continues to broaden into the wider region and beyond.

NGHTMRE x Smokepurpp - MOSH (Kumarion Remix)

Buckle up, Kumarion has dropped an absolutely monster remix of ‘MOSH’ from NGHTMRE x Smokepurpp.

If you like hard hitting club music, Kumarion has you sorted with his Bass remix of ‘MOSH’. The original has its fair share of bountiful Bass but Kumarion dials it up to 11! As he injects his signature style into NGHTMRE and Smokepurpp’s version; the track expands into a new realm of “filthy heater”. As the riotous composition explodes, Smokepurpp’s vocals shine; acting as a guide through the chaos. As an audiophile, there’s so much to explore within Kumarion’s remix… But at the same time its best to let loose, and party to this certified banger.

Kumarion is at the top of his game, and I’m keen to see his next moves.

Like Bass, Trap, Dubstep? Wave is for you!

ASHWARYA - FLARE

Melbourne creative ASHWARYA has won our heart yet again with the release of ‘FLARE’.

Originally released as a stand alone single, ‘FLARE’ now joins the superb NOCTURNAL HOURS EP. Along with this EP inclusion, the track receives a stunning music video directed by Charles Buxton-Leslie. The dreamy VHS style of the video perfectly matches the tender yet profound tone of the recording. This beautiful synergy of sonics and visuals is propelled further by the outstanding styling of ASHWARYA’s outfit; an upcycled piece by Naarm (Melbourne) based designer Jaida the Creator. It’s almost impossible to fault ASHWARYA; her vision and execution is flawless.

I adore ASHWARYA, and I can’t wait to hear what’s to come.

Jarrod Jeremiah - SAFE

Perth creative Jarrod Jeremiah has released ‘SAFE’, a buoyant R&B bop.

Earworm is the first word that comes to mind when listening to ‘SAFE’. The lyricism is fluid, complementing the bubbly production. If you’re familiar with Jerry Folk, Moglii or Kasbo, you’ll adore the production bed that Jarrod Jeremiah’s vocals dances upon. These aforementioned vocals draw parallels to Genesis Owusu, Dominic Fike and Tom Misch, resulting in an accessible yet thoughtful record. This balance between commercial viability and a sense of intimacy has paid dividends in ‘SAFE’s appeal.

This is the first time I’ve covered Jarrod Jeremiah, but I can assure you that it won’t be the last!

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