Album Review: Just One Pill by Edu – A Journey Through Trance’s Sonic Depths
Released in 2013 under the UK-based label Napa Recordings, Just One Pill by Edu is a trance gem that still resonates with fans of the genre. It's not your run-of-the-mill electronic album; it dives deep into emotive soundscapes and pulsating beats, leaving listeners hooked from start to finish. This isn’t just another release—it feels personal, like Edu had something specific he wanted to say without uttering a single word.
Let’s talk tracks. The standout on this record has got to be “Apophis (Original ‘Dirty’ Mix).” From the first beat drop, you’re pulled into an atmospheric whirlwind that feels both chaotic and controlled. The gritty layers of synths clash beautifully against the driving bassline, creating tension that keeps building until it almost feels unbearable—and then, boom, release. It’s the kind of track that makes you close your eyes at a festival and just let go. What sticks with me most about “Apophis” is how unpredictable it feels. You think you’ve got it figured out, but then there’s this tiny tweak in melody or rhythm that throws you off balance—in the best way possible.
Another unforgettable cut? The title track, “Just One Pill.” If “Apophis” is all about chaos, this one leans more introspective. Its hypnotic progression sneaks up on you, layering soft pads with sharp stabs of percussion. There’s a certain melancholy woven into its DNA, making it feel less like a party anthem and more like a late-night drive through empty city streets. Honestly, I remember this one because it stuck in my head for days after hearing it—not in an annoying way, but as if it were whispering secrets only I could hear.
Edu clearly put thought into crafting these pieces. They aren’t just songs; they’re experiences. And while some might argue that trance can sometimes blur together, Just One Pill avoids falling into that trap. Each track brings its own flavor to the table, keeping things fresh throughout. Sure, it’s not perfect—there are moments where the production feels slightly dated compared to today’s standards—but that rawness adds charm. It reminds us where we came from, ya know?
Reflecting on this album years later, it strikes me how much music mirrors life itself. Tracks like “Apophis” show us the beauty in unpredictability, while “Just One Pill” teaches us to find solace in solitude. Maybe that’s why this record lingers long after the last note fades. Or maybe…just maybe…it’s because Edu hid a secret message in those beats. Who knows? Stranger things have happened in trance music.
Rating: 8/10
