Full credit should go to Robert Miles for refusing to recycle his biggest hit, looking instead to further himself as an artist. Several mid ‘90s dance artists could learn from his example. That said, I’m not sure ‘Thirteen’ is a total success, looking as it does towards jazzier climbs inhabited by the likes of Miles Davis and even Chet Baker. There’s nothing here that is unpleasant to listen to, but a lot of it retreats towards the background, with melodies that are attractive but ultimately not distinctive to hold the attention for long. Some tracks are more involved in their steady build of intensity, but while others contain the harmonic complexity of some of Miles’ jazz heroes, they don’t quite pack the same emotional punch. A bold move, but not unfortunately one that sticks in the memory for long enough.
3 Out Of 5
Reviewed By: Ben Hogwood
