Album Review: Live on NTS 300417 by Alex Egan
Alex Egan’s Live on NTS 300417 is a genre-defying journey that feels like flipping through a crate of records while blindfolded—except every pick somehow works. Released in 2017 under his own label and NTS Radio, this DJ mix pulls from an absurdly wide range of styles: techno, acid house, post-punk, synth-pop, funk, goth rock—you name it. It’s not just a mix; it’s a kaleidoscope of sound that reflects both Egan’s deep knowledge of music and his knack for stitching wildly different tracks into something cohesive.
One standout track is “Dead Eyes Opened”, which punches through the mix with its eerie synths and driving rhythm. The song’s darkwave vibes feel like stepping into a smoky Berlin club circa 1985, but there’s also this weird sense of nostalgia that sneaks up on you. Maybe it’s the way the melody lingers just long enough to stick in your head before morphing into something else entirely. Tracks like this remind you why Egan has earned props as a master curator—he doesn’t just play songs; he tells stories with them.
Another unforgettable moment comes with “Crockett’s Theme (Extended 12" Mix)”. If you’ve ever watched Miami Vice or even just stared at neon lights reflecting off rain-soaked streets, this one hits hard. The extended version lets the lush, cinematic synths breathe, creating a vibe that’s equal parts retro and futuristic. You can almost picture Don Johnson cruising down Ocean Drive in slow motion. It’s cheesy yet brilliant, and Egan drops it at just the right time to give the set some breathing room between heavier hitters.
What makes Live on NTS 300417 so special isn’t just the variety—it’s how seamlessly everything flows together. Sure, genres clash left and right, but somehow it never feels forced. Whether it’s the hypnotic beats of “Afro Darkness,” the industrial edge of “Norman Bates,” or the dreamy ambience of “Before You Sleep,” each track adds its own flavor without overshadowing the whole.
The album ends with a reflective tone, leaving you somewhere between awe and confusion. And honestly? That’s kind of perfect. Listening to this mix feels like wandering through a labyrinth where every turn reveals something unexpected—a rare gem, a forgotten memory, maybe even yourself.
Final thought: If I ever find myself stranded on a desert island, I’d probably smuggle this album along. Not because it’s comforting, but because it’d keep me guessing. Who knows? Maybe Alex Egan would throw in a hidden track about coconuts next time.
