Jay worked in studios in Nottingham that were primarily used by DJs with International Peoples Gang and Tony Global co-producing, which brought an electronic influence to some of the songs he was working on. He then first enlisted local Nottingham rhythm section drummer Matt Klose and bassist Garf to work with in the studio. He later recruited former Six by Seven guitarist Sam Hempton, who features on album track "Remember This Feeling", and keyboardist Olli Cunningham for live work. In 2000, Jay released the critically acclaimed EPs "Four Songs" and "Friendly Fire".