Radian

RADIAN formed in the winter of 2017 as guitarist Mike Burns (Rue, Sofa King Killer) set out to fuse groove and grime into something both confrontational and enduring. The project took shape on its independent debut, Chapters (2019), a sludgy, dynamic statement praised by The Obelisk for, “that extra bit of aggression one finds underlying the most satisfying of sludge metals.” The record established RADIAN as a formidable presence in the Midwest metal underground, built on relentless shows and a DIY work ethic. This drive carried into Discordian (2022), released via Burns’ own El Burno Records. Darker and less forgiving, the album reflected a band pushing against the limits. Touring in support of the record brought both expansion and fracture – multiple lineup changes, periods of uncertainty, and turbulence that ultimately reshaped the band’s direction. During this period, RADIAN’s lineup coalesced with renewed focus and intent, featuring vocalist Corey Staley, drummer Derek Vaive, and bassist Carly Allman, alongside Burns. What followed was not simply new material, but a reframing of purpose. The result is Subterfuge, a concept-driven album that channels a recasting of sludge and doom into a tale of resistance, survival, and cultural preservation.