Binary Finary: Pioneers of UK Trance Music

Binary Finary is a British electronic music act best known for their seminal trance anthem "1998". Originating from the United Kingdom, the project gained international fame in the late 1990s as part of the burgeoning European trance movement. Their signature track became a global club staple and a defining record of the era, achieving gold certifications in multiple territories and enduring radio play for decades.

Early career

The Binary Finary project was formed in 1997 by producers Matt Laws and Ben Ross. Emerging from the UK's vibrant electronic music scene, they were quickly signed to the influential Australian dance label Central Station Records. Their early work focused on the energetic, melodic style of progressive trance that was dominating clubs and festivals at the time.

Breakthrough

The duo's breakthrough arrived in 1998 with the release of their instrumental track "1998". Released on Central Station, the song was an immediate sensation in clubs worldwide. Its powerful, arpeggiated bassline and euphoric build-ups resonated deeply, leading to widespread radio support and eventual gold record status in Australia.

Key tracks

1998 — This is the definitive Binary Finary track, a platinum-selling instrumental that became an anthem for a generation of trance fans.

1999 — The official follow-up to their hit, this version featured vocals by Shelley Preston and further solidified their chart success.

Niterider — A collaboration with producer Mark Shimmon, this track showcased their ability to craft driving, peak-time trance energy.

1998 (Gouryella Remix) — The remix by Ferry Corsten's legendary Gouryella project brought the classic to a new audience in the early 2000s.

Following their initial success, the act saw various iterations and releases throughout the 2000s on labels like Ministry of Sound. While the original duo parted ways, the Binary Finary name and legacy continued, with Matt Laws often helming new productions and performances. Their music has been featured on countless trance compilation albums, cementing their place in the genre's history.

Fans of Binary Finary's uplifting and melodic sound also enjoy the work of similar UK trance artists. Above & Beyond share a focus on emotive, melody-driven productions. Ferry Corsten was a direct collaborator and pioneer of the same late-90s trance wave. Paul Van Dyk exemplifies the German trance sound that closely aligned with Binary Finary's style. Chicane is another UK act known for crafting timeless, instrumental trance classics.

Binary Finary's music maintains a strong presence on radio, particularly on dedicated electronic music stations. Their tracks are fixtures on trance and progressive radio streams, classic dance music FM channels, and online radio stations specializing in 90s and 2000s dance anthems.

Listeners can experience the iconic sound of Binary Finary on radio stations featured right here on onairium.com. Tune in to discover their classic anthems and the vibrant world of trance music broadcasting across our network.