Radian (Martin Brandlmayr (Drums, Vibraphone, Computer), Stefan Németh (Synthesizers, Computer) and John Norman (Bass)) have been associated with the austrian electonic scene around pita/mego for a while, their refusal to be definded as neither nerd/noise/avantgarde nor postrock always made them fall out a bit. Since they moved to Thrill Jockey it seems like they eventually found a home which provides the patience, rapture and support the trio needs and deserves.
rec.extern is Radians 3rd release, it was recorded and mixed by John McEntire in his Chicago studio and is a result of meticulous engineering and a perfectly thought out concept. But all the minimalism and stringency inheres the most passionate and articulate understanding of what sound can be and how far it can be taken. The sinus tone, clicks and cracks now team up with the reinforced audibility of the vigorous sound of the actual acoustic instrument making an impact as fragile and virtuous as possible.
Watch out for Radians US-tour (with Pan American + Signer), it would be a shame to miss "Jet" where Radian almost start to rock in Thrill Jockeys best postrock-tradition. Almost, if there wasn't this beautifully carried out seriousness.