A formidable name in dance music, DJ Sneak has always been at the forefront of house music so it was only fitting that he would mix the latest addition to NRK music’s Back in the Box compilation series. The series captures the live mixing of some of today’s greatest artists including Joey Negro, Louie Vega and Dave Clarke and the various tracks that have shaped their styles over the years.

From the moment the first disc starts, you know you’re in for some real fun! Exciting upfront big room house beats prevail and drive home the feeling that you should expect no less than a perfect mix defined by the eclectic tastes which Sneak is well known for.

With its sheer rawness the Back in the Box series creatively shifts the focus onto the classic individual tracks including Freeform Five ft. Carolyn Harding – One Day (Freeform Re – Form Dub) and BT – Remember (Mood 2 Swing Dub mix) whilst highlighting the energy nurtured by the distinct creativeness created by Sneak through the live mixing.

The ingenious use of tracks with soft, soulful lyrics characterises a little more depth to the mix and captivates the listener as they indulge in the caramelised texture of classic feel-good house spanning all eras of house music. From the hypnotic nature of live sampling, to the use of modern technical mixing effects including the flange and beat mashing, the mix continues through some of the more defined tracks in house music including Deepah Ones – In The Sky, the vocal touch of Global Communication – The Way and the classic track Bob Sinclar – Visions of Paradise, immersed in deep baselines and mesmerising vocals.

As Sneak searches even deeper inside his record box he heads for a more soulful house approach with the formidable tracks including Cajmere feat. Dajae – Brighter Days and Cricco Castelli – Life is Changing solidly mashed into a highly energetic finale of the first disc in true Sneak style.

After experiencing the first mix, you might seem a little bemused that the mix on the second disc takes on much tamer attire. The softer approach is well disguised in the beginning track and a personal favourite, Markus Nikolai – Bushes (The second Remix Version 2.1) followed by Secret Ingredients – Chicago Chicago. The tracks, rather than the overall mix, are more prominent on the second mix as Sneak adds two of his personal productions to the track listing including his classic hit track You Can’t Hide From Your Bud and the very subtle All Over My Face. The tracks Happy Human – Horn Junk and C-Dock – Traffic Jam offer some variety before Sneak again finishes off with some huge classic tracks including Ian Pooley – Higgledy Piggledy and Bob Sinclar – The Ghetto (Original Cleared Version) as the mix finally dissolves through the final track Fantom – Faithfull (Original Mix Par Fantom).

Expect no less than quality house music with that raw, unadulterated touch that can be only produced from the elements of live mixing. From the many featured classic tracks to the creativeness and artistry of Sneak, this compilation is perfect for any occasion and most importantly it’s definitely another worthy addition to any house music lover’s collection.