"Contrary to many of the previous reviews from listeners, this CD is an exceptional piece of work. If you liked the repetative, "Whomp..Whomp..Whomp..Whomp..Whomp" sound of the "Dreamland" CD, you probably agree with the afore mentioned critics. If you bought Dreamland for the track "Children", and also liked "One and One" for example, you WILL go nuts over this disk. Robert proves himself to be quite versatile here, with a variety of beats and moods. "Everyday Life", with robust female vocals, has much, much, more personality than anything off of "Dreamland". This song is over ten minutes of pleasure, and blends wonderfully into "Freedom", which does remind me of "Children" to a degree, but with vocals and a more uplifting beat. I first heard "Maresias" using my diskman, while watching planes from the observation deck at LAX's theme building. This track is absolutely, phenominally, mood setting. I have never been so humbled in all of my life. An absolutely beautiful combination of piano, synthesizer, sax, and trumpets blends wonderfully with a relaxing, Latin tempo. Miles is pulling away from the pack when it comes to Modern Contemporary music. BUY IT NOW!"
Weaver of Profound Sensations
Clarissa | Ontario, California | 02/24/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"One thing I really love about Robert Miles is how one album never sounds similar to another he's done. He's constantly reinventing himself and trying new things, fully aware of the fact that not everyone is going to like it. He's a risk taker and I've always appreciated that in a musician. Many consider 'Dreamland' to be his masterpiece thus far but '23 AM' has grown on me considerably since I first got it over a year ago and I personally feel that this is his best and most diverse work yet. The songs take a while to get going sometimes but it's recommended that you lay back and simply immerse yourself in the music, and without any distractions to effectively increase your enjoyment. Of course it's completely safe to drive with this blaring in your car stereo as well for it will hardly put you to sleep... Albeit many of the melodies start out melodically slow with soft female cooing, the pace is very well-balanced between trancy upbeat tempos and lulling rhythms that flow like the gentle lapping of waves against the shore. I myself prefer the hypnotic beats of "Everyday Life" and "Full Moon" with the ethereal vocals of Nancy Danino, however a lot of people seem to think the two songs "Freedom" and "Enjoy" to have cheesy lyrics when I in fact find them spiritually uplifting with positive messages, both beautifully sung with edgy soul by the emotive Kathy Sledge. As for the instrumentals I thoroughly enjoy "A New Flower" with the strange baby samples and the lush, dreamy "Textures" but, IMO, every track is beyond incredible.I doubt '23 AM' will ever garner the kind of praise it truly deserves but I highly recommend this to fans of chillout and trance."
A must have...
Joe P Hoggan | Vero Beach, Florida | 12/01/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
""23am" is a splendid product of Robert Miles' continuing growth as an artist. Comparing tracks from "Dreamland" to "23am" reveals new depth and appeal. Though it is among my favorite CDs, "Dreamland's" tracks tend to share the same fundamental sound throughout the album. Robert Miles introduces greater variety in "23am", providing each track with it's own distinct character. The true value of this album is found by sitting back at the end of a long day, closing your eyes, and savoring it's entire length. Robert Miles' new sound is beautiful, yet unobtrusive. It fuels the imagination, and sets the mind at ease."
Another Journey From Robert Miles
Mike Smith | 08/04/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This release as well as his earlier work Dreamland, is worth getting. Anyone who has listened to Children on the radio knows his immaculate style. If you have been exposed to only a little Robert Miles and don't know if you should get any, trust me, take the plunge. Get this and Dreamland. You will not be disappointed."
Robert Miles second album, Strong Message, Great Music
Chad A. Lauterbach | Los Angeles, CA USA | 10/02/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Robert Miles first CD "Dreamland", and hit single "Children" both possessed awesome dream style techno, and definately brought his past trance roots out for show-and-tell, but his new album "23am" brings more than just great new music in his style. He brings a powerful message: "...there are masses of people out there that are strenuously fighting to better this world, now devestated by man." as quoted from the liner notes. If you liked dreamland, especially the track "Fable", I think you will love this album, and hopefully we can all learn something from his travels and message."