Vienna’s leading experimental outfit Radian will release a new album this fall, entitled On Dark Silent Off.
Radian is the trio of Martin Brandlmayr (drums, electronics), John Norman (bass), and Martin Siewert (guitars, electronics), who have been influenced by and shaped the city’s vivid scene of electronica in the early 2000s. The album features guest performances by saxophonist Mats Gustafsson, and marks the first Radian album since guitarist Martin Siewert joined.
Though performing as a somewhat traditional ensemble live, the group utilizes a number of techniques both in the studio and on the stage to manipulate their sound into a uniquely effected and electronic sound, molding the most minute noises into loops and patterns that are equal parts gritty and danceable. While the album features live instrumental performances, these instruments are scrutinized and reconfigured through the lenses of vintage amplifiers, sequencers, and pushing digital outboard recording gear beyond their limits.
On Dark Silent Off has been in the making since 2010, with each piece being crafted and re-constructed over time. Debut track “Scary Objects” began its life as a live score to a Ben Russell film as part of his Trypps series.
Radian’s recording/creative process takes a central role in shaping the pieces. It is a two-fold process of creating material through improvisation, sound experiments and processing on the one hand, and a routine of carefully selecting and editing this material on the other.
In advance of the LP’s November release, “Scary Objects” is streamable in full below, with pre-order available here.
