Hot Picks: Merissa Mahilaa Shares The Club Tracks Driving Her Sound As ‘Slushy’ Lands With J.WHEEL
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Merissa Mahilaa continues to build momentum across Europe’s underground circuit with the release of ‘Slushy’, a collaboration with Spanish producer J.WHEEL that captures the forward motion behind her rise. Defined by pressurised basslines, rolling drums, and sharp vocal interplay, the track reflects the groove-led identity she has developed through releases on SK Recordings and Agape Muzik, as well as appearances in clubs across Germany, Spain, and beyond. Sitting between house and tech with clarity and intent, ‘Slushy’ reinforces her position as an artist focused on rhythm, tension, and dancefloor connection rather than surface-level impact.
That same instinct drives her selections as a DJ. The records featured in this Hot Picks playlist reflect the deeper framework behind her sets, spanning hypnotic rollers, minimal cuts, and emotionally charged club tools that shape the energy of a room over time. Each track highlights the balance between control and release that defines her approach, offering a clear window into the sounds influencing her current direction.
I’ve pulled together a selection of tracks that have really resonated with me lately. Records I keep returning to in my sets because of the way they move a room, convey emotion or just feel timeless on the dancefloor. - Merissa Mahilaa
Riaz Dhanani - Ride (Woodlands Records)
“This Track carries a late-night tension that feels intimate yet confident. The vocal pulls you instantly, creating a moment where the room settles into its own rhythm.”
Hector Couto-Lil Old Man (Sola)
“Hector’s sound has this timeless quality that always works for me. It flows naturally and keeps movement constant without ever asking for too much attention.”
Melanie Ribbe - Stricktly Rhythm (Agape Muzik)
“A refined balance of strength and control. The arrangement feels focused and precise, allowing the rhythm to speak for itself while maintaining a steady sense of drive.”
RSquared - What U Need (RWorks)
“This track stands out for its playful and instant character. The vocal is light and memorable, while the melody carries a subtle 80s touch.”
Francis de Simone - Fashion (Deeperfect)
“Smooth and full of character. This record works beautifully as a smooth transition between deeper moments and more expressive parts of a set.”
Iglesias - Dale Papasito (Hellbent Records)
“This track carries a playful confidence that always gets a reaction. Light-hearted yet grounded, it brings a sense of release while keeping its underground edge intact.”
Fer BR, C. Loubs - Throw It feat. C. Loubs (Shout Label)
“A standout for its energy and attitude. The bold vocal paired with the groove creates that exact moment when the dancefloor lets go and follows the beat.”
Stefano Noferini, ART NO LOGIA - Turn The Music Up (Deeperfect)
“Direct and impactful, built for moments when the room needs clarity and focus. Straightforward in structure, but highly effective in context.”
Indeep - Last Night a D.J. Saved My Life (Smeddles More Ass Mix) (Kookoo Records)
“A familiar vocal reimagined through a modern lens. It bridges past and present in a way that feels natural and still very relevant on today’s dancefloor.”
Jay de Lys - Control (PIV)
“There’s something uplifting about this one. The 80s influence and the empowering vocal give it a light, confident feeling that always lifts the mood in a natural way.”
Together, these selections map the foundation behind Merissa Mahilaa’s evolving sound. From late-night tension and groove-led minimalism through to playful vocal cuts and timeless club reworks, each record reflects a commitment to flow, patience, and emotional precision on the dancefloor. With ‘Slushy’ marking another step forward alongside J.WHEEL, her trajectory continues to align with artists pushing modern underground house into sharper, more intentional territory. As her productions and DJ sets reach wider audiences, these influences remain central to a sound built for longevity, shaped by instinct, and tested where it matters most.