‘The Amsterdam Tapes, Vol. 1’ by Jake Major is an electrifying musical excursion. Jake, only 19 at the time of this recording, has already crafted a unique style that merges history and contemporary electronic music. His influences extend from Kraftwerk to Giorgio Moroder, and while placing his footprints into fresh artistry, he does not forget to pay homage to his idols. This four-track EP takes listeners through different moods, from deep introspection to high-energy moments. The first track, “These Pills of Lust and Longing”, opens with a hypnotic beat and atmospheric synths. The layers build gradually, creating an almost cinematic feel. It showcases beautiful nostalgic and modern sounds woven with a melancholia that is deep beneath the surface. This track could accompany a late-night drive or a scene in a sci-fi film.
“Euphoria Peloria” is brimming with zest. The driving bass and rhythmic elements make this one of the most active tracks on the EP. The sharply executed synth melodies continuously change. The order of the elements is chaotic but harmonious at the same time, which makes the experience delightful. “How Can It Be?” gets deep into an emotional territory and slows things down. The addition of the ambient textures and the subtle beats create an incapsulating coupling of music and sound. It’s contemplative in nature; like the sound equivalent of a musing reflecting late at night. It slowly settles into the listener and does not rush to disappear.
The closing track, “Vigilante”, is deep and encompasses the whole thing in a rich tapestry. It has a heavier side to it, with rich bass and a dramatic sweeping synth. There exists some narrative within the track, which keeps the listener in a state of tension. This track is a perfect way to end the EP, revealing no story while leaving the listener with a perfect sense of curiosity. Jake Major proves with this EP that he’s not just experimenting—he’s crafting something unique. The heavy influence of electronics that are blended in an edgy modern style makes “The Amsterdam Tapes, Vol. 1” a must-listen too. If you happen to be a fan of older electronic innovators or contemporary experimental sounds, you have everything in this EP.
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