Different Light – Binary Suns (Part 2 – Alternate Reality)

Thanks to Anne-Claire from Bad Dog Promotions, David van Hartingsveldt from Shaded Moon Records, sent me a copy of the album Binary Suns (Part 2 – Alternate Reality) by Different Light. The band was formed in Malta at the end of 1994. Since then they have released four albums, an EP and a compilation. Since 2008 Trevor Tabone (keys & vocals) moved to Prague, Czech Republic. Over the years the band sold CDs in over 30 countries around the world and was downloaded numerous times and streamed on Spotify, iTunes, Youtube etc.

Now, the follow up to their 2020 release Binary Suns (Part 1 Operant Condition) is finally here. On this latest studio effort titled Binary Suns (Part 2 – Alternate Reality) the band comprised of Trevor Tabone (keys & vocals), David Filak (drums), Jirka Matousek (bass), Petr Lux (guitars) and Lucy Lux (additional backing vocals), delivers an epic and atmospheric progressive rock 60 minutes masterpiece journey. Thus, with this new album, Different Light continue their ambitious conceptual saga and journey, which deepens the themes introduced on (Part 1 Operant Condition). The album balances emotional storytelling with intricate musicianship, offering a rich, immersive listening experience that highlights the band’s evolution. One can safely say that the overall sound on Binary Suns (Part 2 – Alternate Reality) is shaped by a blend of several distinct sub-genres and sonic elements, like neo-progressive-, classic & melodic rock, with some additional melodic pop touches.

The individual tracks are generally short in nature, though forming separate parts, (the hour-long album consists of six primary tracks, many of which are broken down into expansive multi-part epics) giving it a cohesive approach over the unfolding concept. Lyrical themes deal with the issues of; parallel realities, human choices, free will, escapism, and duality. None of this could have been completed without the masterful handling of their respective instruments; as we get to hear some nice, crispy and crunchy guitar riffs, supported by occassional tight solos, then a fluid use of keys and synths, a rock solid rhythm section with plenty of melody and hooks, precise drumming, and overall a very catchy and expressive vocals. Speaking of the vocals; although he’s excellently backed by Petr Lux on guitars, Jirka Matousek on bass and David Filak on drums, Trevor Tabone’s expressive vocals and keyboards are some of the things I will highlight in particular, as the emotional anchor of the album.

From a production standpoint, the latest record from Different Light marks a deliberate shift toward a heavier, darker and more guitar-driven sound, than its predecessor. The visual identity, layout and cover art for Binary Suns (Part 2 – Alternate Reality) were created by chaba.design. Meanwhile, the final track, “Last Call” intentionally integrates algorithmic codes that correlate directly with the hidden visual clues embedded inside the cover art.

If you are a fan of neo-progressive rock, classic rock, and melodic pop, this is right up your alley. Anyone who enjoys Spock’s Beard, The Flower Kings, Neal Morse Band, Alan Parsons, Supertramp, or Pink Floyd should not hesitate to give this record a few spins to let the magic sink in. To order the new album only CD please visit Shaded Moon Records, or for fans outside of the EU visit band’s Bandcamp.