Binary Suns (Part 1 - Operant Condition) by Different Light: A Retrospective
- Noel Mifsud
- Mar 17
- 4 min read
Progressive rock enthusiasts were treated to something truly special in January 2020 when Different Light released Binary Suns (Part 1 - Operant Condition) through Progressive Gears Records. The album was a bold and melodically rich statement from a band with a long and winding history, one that has seen them evolve from their roots in Malta to establishing a firm foothold in Prague. Now, five years later, with anticipation building for the upcoming Binary Suns (Part 2 - Alternate Reality), it’s the perfect time to revisit the first part of this expansive work.
A Band with a History and a Vision
Formed in 1994 in Malta by Trevor Tabone, Different Light initially gained traction with their debut album All About Yourself (1996). The band saw early success, even supporting Fish (ex-Marillion) in 1998 before splitting up in 1999. However, in 2008, Tabone resurrected Different Light in Prague, gradually shaping its sound with new musicians. Over the years, their releases have been well-received, particularly Icons That Weep (2009) and The Burden of Paradise (2016). By the time they entered the studio for Binary Suns (Part 1 - Operant Condition), the band had solidified its lineup: Trevor Tabone (vocals, keyboards), Petr Lux (guitars, backing vocals), Jirka Matoušek (bass), and David Filák (drums).
A Progressive Rock Journey
Clocking in at just under 57 minutes, Binary Suns (Part 1 - Operant Condition) offers an immersive sonic experience. The album consists of six tracks, with three multi-part suites that encapsulate Different Light’s signature blend of symphonic and neo-prog elements. From the sprawling 21-minute epic “Spectres and Permanent Apparitions” to the soaring melodies of “Two Faces,” the album presents a nostalgic yet fresh take on progressive rock.
One of the highlights, “Amphibians,” is structured into four distinct movements—Water, Land, Sky, and The Message—that weave an intricate tapestry of sound, shifting between atmospheric passages and intricate instrumental interplay. Tracks like “Faith” and “The Answer” deliver shorter, yet equally compelling, compositions that showcase the band’s melodic sensibilities.
Released on January 17, 2020, Binary Suns (Part 1 - Operant Condition) was made available in both CD and digital formats under Progressive Gears Records. The full tracklist includes:
Amphibians (8:54)
i. Water
ii. Land
iii. Sky
iv. The Message
Faith (4:12)
Spectres and Permanent Apparitions (21:31)
i. Ataraxia
ii. Two Shadows
iii. Small Mercies
iv. Hand of Providence
v. BarBrera
vi. Synestesia
vii. Midas Gold
The Answer (3:47)
Two Faces (7:42)
On the Borderline (10:45)
i. Talking to Strangers
ii. Seduction
iii. Obsession
iv. Vindication
v. Demonic
vi. Now Just Go Away
The lineup for the album featured Trevor Tabone on vocals and keyboards, Petr Lux on guitars and backing vocals, Jirka Matoušek on bass, and David Filák on drums. The album’s structure and arrangement highlight the band’s ability to craft compelling progressive compositions while maintaining accessibility and strong melodic foundations.
Critical Reception
Binary Suns (Part 1 - Operant Condition) garnered praise from critics and fans alike. Reviewer Kev Rowland observed how the album’s sound harkens back to a blend of American melodic rock and commercial progressive rock, evoking a unique combination akin to “REO Speedwagon and Mystery forming a single unit.” He further highlighted Trevor Tabone’s vocals, comparing them to Kevin Cronin, and noted the strong presence of piano-driven melodies layered with lush guitars and intricate harmonies. “A very easy album indeed to get into on the very first listen, it only gets better with repeated plays,” Rowland concluded.
Another review by Silly Puppy positioned the album within the realm of 90s symphonic and neo-prog, drawing comparisons to acts like The Flower Kings, Spock’s Beard, and Neal Morse. The review described Binary Suns as an album that embraces the “sunny side of prog” with uplifting melodies, rich harmonies, and a theatrical flair. While acknowledging the album’s proficiency in channeling the golden era of 90s prog, the reviewer noted that it might not break new ground, stating, “Perhaps the lapse in time didn’t close a certain chapter in the book, but one would think by 2020 that a band with a firm command of the neo-prog scene could muster up a little more creativity.” Nonetheless, for fans of symphonic prog’s grandiosity, the album remains a rewarding listen.
Looking Ahead: Binary Suns (Part 2 - Alternate Reality)
With the announcement of Binary Suns (Part 2 - Alternate Reality) scheduled for release in 2025 under their new label, Shaded Moon Entertainment, fans eagerly await the continuation of this musical saga. The recently released single, A Fool’s Errand, has already generated excitement, promising another compelling chapter in Different Light’s journey.
For those who may have missed Binary Suns (Part 1 - Operant Condition) upon its initial release, now is the perfect time to delve into its intricate compositions and rich textures.
Whether you’re a longtime follower of Different Light or new to their music, this album stands as a testament to their ability to craft engaging and emotive progressive rock. With Part 2 on the horizon, the story of Binary Suns is far from over.
Spotify link to Binary Suns (Part 1 - Operant Condition)
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