Alright, let’s dive into Jan Van Damm’s Wanderlust EP, a little gem from 2011 that still holds up if you’re into Tech House vibes. Released under Leap4rog Music out of the US, this EP isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel, but it doesn’t need to—it’s got groove and grit in spades.
First off, I gotta shout out “Wanderlust,” the title track. Man, this one just clicks. It’s got this hypnotic beat that sneaks up on ya—nothing flashy, just steady and smooth like a late-night drive with no destination. The bassline is chunky enough to keep your head nodding, but there’s also this subtle layer of atmospheric pads floating around in the background. Feels like staring at city lights through rain-streaked windows. You know those tracks that don’t demand attention but somehow grab it anyway? Yeah, that’s “Wanderlust” for sure.
Then there’s “Sophisticated.” This one hits different—it’s sharper, punchier, like someone spiked your coffee with something stronger. The percussion here is tight as hell, all crisp hi-hats and snappy kicks, while the synths add this playful edge without going overboard. What sticks with me is how effortlessly cool it feels. Like, you could drop this in a set and watch people suddenly start moving like they didn’t even realize they were standing still. It’s not trying too hard, which makes it hit even harder.
I didn’t vibe quite as much with “What Happened,” though—it’s solid, don’t get me wrong, but it doesn’t leave the same impression as the other two. Maybe it’s because it leans a bit more generic compared to the personality shining through in “Wanderlust” and “Sophisticated.” Still, it rounds out the EP nicely, keeping things consistent.
Honestly, what I love about this EP is how unpretentious it feels. Jan Van Damm wasn’t out here trying to blow minds or make some grand statement; he was just making music that works. And sometimes, that’s exactly what you need—a soundtrack for moments when you’re not looking for anything deep, just something that moves.
Oh, fun fact: listening to this made me wonder if Jan ever went on an actual wanderlust trip after naming his EP. Like, did he pack a bag, hop on a train, and disappear for a month? Or was he just chilling in his studio dreaming about it? Either way, good stuff. Check it out if you dig Tech House that keeps it real.
