In the ever-evolving world of electronic music, few artists exhibit the versatility and depth of Jake Major. Born and based in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, Major is a 19-year-old composer, producer, and performer who refuses to be confined by genre. His sonic palette stretches across the vast spectrum of electronic music, making his work both unpredictable and exciting. From an early age, Major demonstrated an insatiable curiosity for sound, drawing inspiration from legendary electronic pioneers such as Jean-Michel Jarre, Giorgio Moroder, Kraftwerk, and John Foxx. His musical journey, however, does not stop in the past.

Though he embodies the essence of ‘70s and ‘80s electronic music, he also possesses a profound admiration for ‘90s trance and dance beats, influenced by figures such as Armin van Buuren, Paul van Dyk, Gigi D’Agostino, and Lange in his modern sound. This combination, fusing the roots of electronic music with innovative production, has emerged as a hallmark of his artistry. Although he is quite young, Jake Major has engaged in studio work and live performances for four years, showcasing a commitment and productivity that distinguish him from many up-and-coming artists.

His music transcends mere sound; it focuses on experience, crafting immersive auditory environments that take listeners to various realms. In contrast to numerous producers who stick to a consistent style, Major continually evolves, adjusting his sound to fresh inspirations, innovative concepts, and new artistic challenges. Having a birthday on October 10 alongside legendary artists such as David Lee Roth (Van Halen), Midge Ure (Ultravox), and Martin Kemp (Spandau Ballet), it seems fitting that Major would be attracted to a genre centered on reinvention, nostalgia, and creativity. His newest endeavor, The Amsterdam Tapes, Vol. 1, reflects his passion for the deep heritage of electronic music and his talent for advancing it into the future.

Released on February 7, 2025, The Amsterdam Tapes, Vol. 1 is a statement, a portal into the mind of an artist who refuses to be bound by convention. This project marks a significant moment in Jake Major’s career, as it is his first full-on exploration of trance and dance music. Even more notably, it is the first time he has incorporated vocals into every track, a bold departure from his usual instrumental focus. The inspiration behind the EP is as personal as it is artistic. Amsterdam, a city that pulses with the lifeblood of electronic music served as both a creative muse and a backdrop for many of the ideas that birthed this project. Major, a frequent visitor to the city, found himself deeply immersed in its unique energy, and this translated directly into the music. Some of the songs were even conceptualized while he was in Amsterdam and later recorded upon returning home.

The Amsterdam Tapes, Vol. 1 is a fusion of decades, a bridge between the hypnotic trance anthems of the ‘90s and the futuristic soundscapes of today. The EP channels the energy of legendary club nights, the rush of pulsating synths, and the introspection that comes with losing oneself on the dancefloor. It is a journey into euphoria, nostalgia, and the ever-present tension between escape and reality. With meticulous production, immersive storytelling, and a blend of old-school influences with cutting-edge electronic sounds, The Amsterdam Tapes, Vol. 1 is not just an evolution of Jake Major’s artistry but also a bold new chapter in his story. Whether you’re a seasoned lover of trance or a newcomer to electronic music, this EP is an invitation to experience the sound of the past, present, and future all at once.

The Amsterdam Tapes, Vol. 1 EP Track List:

These Pills of Lust and Longing:
These Pills of Lust and Longing, the opening track of Jake Major’s The Amsterdam Tapes, Vol. 1, immediately immerses listeners in a mesmerizing soundscape. The song begins with ethereal, space-like tones accompanied by a trippy, mesmerizing sequence of effects, and then the pulsating magic beat of EDM, setting an otherworldly atmosphere. As the track progresses, rapid and relentless beats thunder in, driving the song forward with a relentless energy. The layered intensity of the composition creates a dreamlike state, drawing the listener deeper into its psychedelic journey.
Jake’s hypnotic vocal delivery is both breathy and powerful, soaring with a signature style that commands attention. The vocals are masterfully intertwined with the instrumentation, particularly the drum fills, adding an extra layer of excitement that is utterly tantalizing. The synth sounds pay homage to ’80s and ’90s electronic pioneers like Kraftwerk, yet Major crafts a modern, cutting-edge sound that transcends eras. The vocal mix sits low and submerged within the music, a stylistic choice that feels perfectly in sync with the genre. When the solo hits, it’s pure magic, blending subtle influences seamlessly to create something absolutely spectacular.
The high-quality production is evident throughout the track, with every detail meticulously crafted to provide a fully engaging audio-visual experience. The accompanying lyric video enhances the song’s immersive quality, with visuals impeccably timed to the music, intensifying the otherworldly atmosphere. As the song reaches its peak, the screeching, space-like synths carry their own pseudo-vocal energy, elevating the song to a cosmic level. Overall, These Pills of Lust and Longing offers a thrilling blend of nostalgia and innovation, pushing electronic music into exciting new territory.

Vigilante:
Vigilante, a notable song from Jake Major’s The Amsterdam Tapes, Vol. 1, demonstrates his creative method to electronic music. The track begins with a throbbing synth melody that instantly creates a tense and expectant atmosphere. As the composition unfolds, layers of complex electronic textures emerge, resulting in a deep and engaging sound environment. The pulsating rhythm, marked by sharp percussion and a pulsating bassline, pushes the song ahead, sustaining a vibrant energy consistently.
What makes Vigilante especially compelling is its capacity to express a powerful story without relying on vocals. Rather, Major creates an auditory experience in which the instrumentation conveys a lot, permitting the synths and rhythmic designs to be at the forefront. The interaction of the throbbing bass, shifting synth layers, and skillfully crafted drum sequences generates an exhilarating drive that is both filmic and pressing. Every component of the track is carefully positioned, guaranteeing a smooth blend of sound that captivates the listener from beginning to end.
From the beginning, Vigilante surrounds the audience in a thrilling, yet shadowy ambiance. The careful stacking of sounds and the accuracy in the mix showcase a great level of skill, emphasizing Major’s focus on detail. The track’s unyielding tempo and shifting dynamics generate a feeling of urgency and thrill, resulting in a captivating experience from beginning to end. In summary, Vigilante highlights Jake Major’s skill in fusing complex electronic production with powerful auditory storytelling, creating a piece that is both sonically striking and emotionally impactful.

With The Amsterdam Tapes, Vol. 1, Jake Major has crafted an EP that is both a love letter to electronic music history and a bold step forward into his own evolving sound. His ability to fuse nostalgic elements with cutting-edge production ensures that each track is both familiar and innovative. For an artist still early in his career, Major displays an impressive level of sophistication in his songwriting, production, and storytelling. This EP is an experience, a journey through the highs and lows of nightlife, and a showcase of an artist with immense potential. If The Amsterdam Tapes, Vol. 1 is any indication of what’s to come, Jake Major is a name to watch in the electronic music world. His passion, knowledge, and talent are evident in every beat, and this EP is only the beginning.

For more information about Jake Major, click on the icons below.