Binary Finary is a British-Australian trance music act best known for their legendary track \”1998\”, one of the most iconic and influential trance anthems of all time. The act, originally consisting of Matt Laws and Stuart Matheson, became synonymous with the uplifting, melodic, and euphoric sound of late 1990s trance. Their music has continued to evolve, with modern productions and live performances keeping their legacy alive.
Early Career & Breakthrough with \”1998\”
Binary Finary burst onto the trance scene in 1998 with their self-titled track, \”1998\”, which became the first purely instrumental trance track to enter the UK Top 40 chart. The track was later re-released as \”1999\”, featuring legendary remixes by Paul van Dyk, Matt Darey, and Gouryella (Ferry Corsten & Tiësto).
The track’s signature euphoric melody, soaring synths, and uplifting progression made it a defining anthem of the late \’90s trance movement, regularly played at major festivals and clubs worldwide.
Notable Releases & Remixes
- \”1998\” (1998) – The original version that cemented Binary Finary\’s place in trance history.
- \”1999\” (1999) – A reworked version with Paul van Dyk and Gouryella remixes, elevating it to even greater fame.
- \”2000\” (2000) – Another updated version, keeping their legacy alive.
- \”Flight of Life\” (2010) – A fresh take on their signature uplifting sound.
- \”1998 (20th Anniversary Remix)\” (2018) – A modernized version celebrating two decades of their most famous track.
Evolution & Later Career
After the initial success of \”1998\” and its variations, Binary Finary went through lineup changes, with Stuart Matheson continuing to lead the project. They adapted to the evolving trance scene, moving into live performances, collaborations, and new productions.
They also became known for Binary Finary Live, a hybrid DJ/live act incorporating synthesizers and MIDI controllers to create a unique performance experience.