BLEMISH is a Chilean band that plays Death / Doom Metal with melodic elements. And upon first listen, I can say that the last part of that description makes a huge difference when it comes to their sound. More on this below. It would be safe to assume that their one and only previous output, an independent promo tape, put out in May 2024, featured two songs off this album. Either that or these guys lost no time to record and release “Eterna Oscuridad” (Spanish for “Eternal Darkness”) in July 2024. This album features 30 minutes (which is odd for this subgenre) of both emotive and devastating music. And here is where the melodic elements come into play. I can hear a lot of influence from certain European Doom / Death bands that started shifting their sound in the mid ’90s. Especially mixing the more melodic and gothic elements. And that is what makes BLEMISH stand apart from the usual “murky” Doom / Death bands of today. The evocative melodies intertwine with eerie harmonies to create 10 songs that alternate between harsh grimness and subdued warmth. Maybe the closest reference I can think of is TIAMAT’s “The Astral Sleep”. Although BLEMISH’s approach and sound is completely different. The production is dense, yet dramatic and elegant. Giving the deep vocals a distant and sorrowful feeling fits good within the gloomy atmosphere. The guitars have a thick tone; a little bit too “nice” for me though. Maybe adding some more grit would’ve been better. The drums sound natural and organic and the bass tone follows along. I think the key to much of this effective mix is the tight bottom end of the rhythm section. The mix give’s every instrument a lot of room, but it doesn’t sound loose at all. It hits hard when the heavier segments come in. And the dynamic mastering process seems logical given the dark atmosphere that lingers throughout the album. I really liked how all the twists and turns from the guitar parts and the lively vocal performance combine with the rhythm section to build each song. Just like murky, old tree branches growing quickly to cover the sunlight. The band goes from emotive to aggressive and everything in between. “Eterna Oscuridad” comes in as a high quality collection of songs, delivered in a convincing and “old school” way. It makes for an original, yet familiar listening experience. I highly recommend giving this album a much deserved opportunity. You won’t regret it. www.facebook.com/blemishchile, https://ironbloodanddeath.bandcamp.com