One of the most underestimated releases back in 2003, thanks to people following the "Oakenfold is a sell out"-hype, who obviously can't imagine things have to move forward and change with time. Unexpectedly, Oakenfold actually delivers on this one. And he delivers MAGIC in 1999ish proportions, in a way he's only capable of.
Those 2 discs include some of the most beautiful tracks of 2003 (like Motorcycle's, Leama & Moor's and Solar Stone's), with whom most people of the genre are familiar with. You can't forget Infusion remixing Bjork on this one, or Junkie XL doing the same to Dave Gahan, and of course, the utterly beautiful (and very, very hard to get on vinyl) trance version of Mercury Skies, courtesy of John B.
The first disc flows perfectly, with a fantastic track selection (so what if there's Justin or Madonna). Just take a look how much effort has been put into creating such an atmosphere in their remixes. Or take disc two, which begins with emotional, lush and layered breaks which on the second half of the CD transform into progressive and trance frenzy!
Big tracks, sure (from a big man, right?)...but he knows how to keep you interested; as well as incredible ATMOSPHERE and EMOTION which made many non-electronic music lovers play those 2 CD's numerous times (I quote them: "there's something powerful here"), really make this release stand-out.
For me this is the last GREAT mix CD Oakenfold has made in recent years. I don't consider this one to be in the same category with Creamfields. 2006 could bring us one new Perfecto Presents...at least, I hope so.