| Spirits (CD) | 2002 | Picoroco |
Bitterdusk is another band which fits perfectly in this category. Although I discovered the band’s existence only recently, they have already released a first MCD back in 1997. Their experience and know-how clearly shows in this lengthy album. The seven compositions are able to capture the listener’s attention, creating a long journey under the mysterious Chilean fading sunlight. Leonardo Avarado’s clean, low vox reminds of a weary and disillusioned Vincent Cavanaugh. This is not the only parallel with Anathema to be found on this album, as the floating, melodic guitar lines remind strongly of the sound on this band’s masterpieces ’Pentecost III’ and ’The silent enigma’.
But Bitterdusk wouldn’t be a Chilean doom band if they didn’t have that typical South American sound which seems to spring forth directly from the Latin American subconscious. A strange feeling of serenity and dark melancholy lingers throughout the seven compositions. Bitterdusk doesn’t offer unbearable depression or suicidal emotions, their melancholy has an introspective quality, as if they are paying tribute with their sound and band name to the awe inspiring sight of the setting of the Chilean sun.
Other qualities of this album are the thick, heavy production, the satisfying musical variety within the tracks (which is important seeing the length of this album), and the strong, sorrowful instrumental parts that fit perfectly with the melancholic atmosphere. As I stated before, the journey is long, but it’s more than worth undertaking it; it shall leave the listener satisfied, albeit perhaps somewhat tired of life and in a deeply melancholic mood.
1. Intro
2. Everlasting fire
3. Pagan angel
4. When the sun lays down
5. Among the trees
6. Awakening
7. The fallen kingdom
Approx. 69 minutes