Electronic music is in a constant state of evolution, and few young artists embody that ever-changing spirit quite like Jake Major. The Newcastle-based producer, composer, and performer has spent the last few years carving out a niche in the electronic music scene, blending influences from the past with a modern and forward-thinking sound. With The Amsterdam Tapes, Vol. 1, Major takes his first full leap into trance and dance music, embracing the genre’s hypnotic beats, ethereal melodies, and pulsating energy. This EP is not just a tribute to the dance floors of the ‘90s but also a reflection of Major’s artistic growth—especially considering it’s his first release where every track features vocals.
From the very first moments of The Amsterdam Tapes, Vol. 1, it’s clear that Jake Major has a deep appreciation for electronic music history. His inspirations are vast, stretching from the pioneering synth work of Jean-Michel Jarre and Kraftwerk to the euphoric trance anthems of Armin van Buuren and Paul van Dyk. This melting pot of influences results in an EP that feels nostalgic yet fresh, capturing the essence of multiple electronic eras while maintaining a unique identity.
The Amsterdam theme is more than just a name—it’s integral to the project’s essence. Major’s love for the city, a hub for dance music culture, shines through in every track. The EP was partially inspired by time spent in Amsterdam, and that energy translates into a record designed for late-night escapism, whether on a crowded dancefloor or through headphones in solitude.
Track-by-Track Breakdown
1. These Pills of Lust and Longing
Serving as the lead single, These Pills of Lust and Longing immediately immerses the listener in a ‘90s rave atmosphere. The track pulsates with classic trance synths, while the lyrics paint a picture of reckless abandon on the dance floor. The subject matter—drug use in rave culture—might seem provocative at first, but Major’s approach is more cautionary than celebratory. Lines like “I don’t care if it’s laced” highlight the dangerous side of substance use, even as the song captures the euphoria that clubgoers chase.
Musically, this track stands out with its hypnotic arpeggios and dreamy, reverb-heavy vocal delivery. It’s a perfect opening statement, setting the tone for the EP’s blend of nostalgia and introspection.
2. Euphoria Peloria
Building on the themes of the first track, Euphoria Peloria leans into a lighter, more summery dance vibe. The song explores the blurred lines between love, altered consciousness, and escapism, all set against lush synth textures and warm, organic production.
The term “peloria” refers to an abnormal regularity in flowers—an interesting metaphor for an ultimate, perfected high. This play on words adds depth to the track, making it more than just another trance anthem. The airy melodies and dreamlike lyrics make this one of the more intoxicating songs on the EP, evoking the feeling of being lost in the moment, whether in a field at sunrise or in the depths of a packed club.
3. How Can It Be?
Switching gears, How Can It Be? introduces a Eurodance-inspired sound with grittier vocals and a more introspective lyrical approach. The contrast between loneliness and resilience is striking, as Major navigates feelings of isolation while also asserting a newfound strength.
The production here is a highlight—whereas earlier tracks leaned into the smooth, floating side of trance, this one feels rougher, evoking the driving basslines and anthemic hooks of classic ‘90s dance compilations. The vocals take on a distinctly British synthpop character, adding another layer of uniqueness to an already compelling track.
4. Vigilante
Ending the EP with a bang, Vigilante brings a cinematic and dystopian energy. Originally written when Major was just 16, the track has been reimagined with a refined production style that elevates its original concept. The spoken word elements create a sense of mystery and storytelling, while the new brass synth section injects an extra level of drama.
The imagery of a lone figure watching over a city, lost in a haze of neon and smoke, perfectly complements the EP’s overarching themes of escapism and identity. It’s a fitting closer—bold, dark, and evocative, leaving listeners with a lasting impression of Major’s artistic vision.
With The Amsterdam Tapes, Vol. 1, Jake Major has successfully crafted a body of work that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant. The EP showcases his ability to merge different electronic influences into something that doesn’t just replicate the past but builds upon it.
For a 19-year-old artist, Major demonstrates an impressive level of maturity in both songwriting and production. His willingness to experiment—whether through his newfound embrace of vocals or the blending of multiple dance subgenres—proves that he’s not just another electronic producer but a true artist with a distinct creative voice.
This EP is a must-listen for fans of electronic music, whether you’re drawn to the nostalgia of ‘90s trance or looking for something fresh and forward-thinking. With The Amsterdam Tapes, Vol. 1, Jake Major makes it clear that he’s not just participating in electronic music’s evolution—he’s actively shaping its future.
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