“Held the Pulse” by Traquair

Some records feel like a collection of songs, while others feel like a window into a particular world. Traquair’s “Held the Pulse” EP belongs to the second category, offering a deeply atmospheric journey through memory, uncertainty, romance, and the emotional landscape of modern city life. Released through Levelled Records, the five-track project blends psychedelic textures with soulful songwriting, creating a sound that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly personal. Born in Pretoria, South Africa, and now based in Glasgow, Scotland, Stewart Traquair combines two distinct environments that shape the identity of this release. The warmth and openness of his origins meet the colder, industrial character of Glasgow’s streets, creating a fascinating contrast that runs throughout the EP. Armed with a 12-string guitar, poetic storytelling, and influences that reach back to the spirit of glam rock, Traquair crafts music that feels rooted in tradition while remaining distinctly his own. At its core, “Held the Pulse” is a reflection on human connection and the complex emotions that accompany it.

The EP explores moments of longing, uncertainty, and the search for meaning within everyday experiences. Rather than presenting life through simple conclusions, Traquair embraces the imperfections, capturing the beauty and frustration found in relationships, memories, and personal survival. The production plays an important role in creating the EP’s immersive atmosphere. Produced, recorded, and mixed by Roscoe Wilson, the project balances rich melodies with carefully layered arrangements. The songs move naturally between psychedelic haze, soulful warmth, and moments of raw emotional honesty. Each track carries its own character while contributing to the larger narrative of the release. Opening with “Girl, Your Mind Is a Dangerous Game” introduces a hypnotic tension, drawing listeners into the EP’s emotional world through its captivating melodies and reflective tone. Running down from “What if What's to come is the only Attraction” to the title track, “Held the Pulse,” adds gospel-inspired elements that bring a sense of depth and spiritual feeling.

“In Broad Daylight” adds to why the EP is a must-hear collection, while “A Great Time to Be Alive” delivers a more optimistic perspective without ignoring life’s challenges. Together, these songs highlight Traquair’s ability to find beauty within uncertainty. One of the project’s greatest strengths is its authenticity. Traquair does not chase trends or rely on excessive production choices. Instead, he allows songwriting, performance, and atmosphere to remain the foundation. His voice carries the character of someone who has experienced different places, cultures, and stages of life, giving the music a sense of honesty that cannot be manufactured. “Held the Pulse” is a thoughtful and evocative EP that captures the feeling of wandering through city streets with memories, dreams, and unanswered questions. Through psychedelic influences, soulful melodies, and poetic storytelling, Traquair creates a record that feels timeless yet deeply connected to the present. It is a compelling introduction to an artist whose music lives somewhere between faded glamour, emotional truth, and unforgettable late-night reflections.