Andrew Corbin’s new LP Darkness to Light feels like a carefully staged transition, an album that doesn’t just accompany its listeners, but guides them through a clearly defined dramaturgy: it begins in foggy introspection and works its way, piece by piece, towards a warm, energetic morning light. Right from the start, Cinematic Death (welcome to the entryway) opens up an atmospheric space that first beckons and then draws you in completely with a surprisingly groovy impulse; The following interlude number Find a Way (interlude with a vampire) extends this introduction, relying on a concise rhythm section and catchy vocals, thus connecting the intro and main section into a flowing whole. Sonically, Corbin builds on dense synth layers, warm analogue textures and clearly structured arpeggios that give the tracks a steady forward momentum; the 90s aesthetic is palpable, but never nostalgic, rather used as a colour palette to shape modern, uplifting electronica that is both emotional and physical.
Some songs stand out as particular highlights of this journey: Danger in the Dark is one of the strongest moments, reminiscent of contemporary synth acts in its directness and convincing with its clear melodies; Boys on the Run pays tribute to the 90s, combining dynamic breakbeats with shimmering synths and gaining grounding through Hollywood Brown’s smoky blues guitar; In the House Between Two Worlds surprises with unexpectedly driving 90s house vibes, while Into the Night functions as a nocturnal ferry ride between synth pop, house and synthwave, carried by a dominant bass and multi-layered synth pads. Already Here slows down the tempo and creates a meditative moment that invites mindfulness with ethereal vocals and warm pads, and We Could Be on Fire unfolds anthemic warmth as a call for inner renewal.
Corbyn’s voice spans a wide range from fragile falsetto passages to powerful, forceful moments; it grounds the cinematic production and makes the idea of transformation through passing through darkness audible. The album closes with danceable, nostalgic tracks such as Runnin‘ for Your Love, a remix and a ballad that round off the concept and confirm the carefully considered song order. Darkness to Light is not merely a hodgepodge, but an LP that combines atmosphere, narrative and club suitability while remaining emotionally accessible without sacrificing sonic complexity.