A Blemish In the Great Light

Released in 2019, A Blemish In the Great Light represents a significant evolution for Montreal-based Half Moon Run. Following the dark, synth-heavy textures of Sun Leads Me On, this third studio outing sees the band returning to a more organic, folk-centric palette while retaining their penchant for complex, art-rock structures. Produced by Joe Chiccarelli, the album highlights the band's virtuosity, particularly their ability to weave intricate three-part vocal harmonies into polyrhythmic arrangements that draw from both 1970s Laurel Canyon folk and modern indie rock. The centerpiece, Razorblade, showcases their most ambitious songwriting to date, clocking in at over seven minutes and transitioning through multiple sonic movements. Critics noted the album's technical precision and its ability to balance accessibility with experimental flourishes, solidifying the band's position as leaders in the Canadian indie-folk scene.