History

The Eternal formed in 2003 from the ashes of renowned Melbourne doom band Cryptal Darkness, the veterans of three acclaimed albums and numerous national tours. In live and recorded performance, The Eternal strive to successfully combine the primal excitement and energy of a cohesive rhythm section with strong vocal and guitar melodies, and the symphonic atmosphere of layered keyboards. A wide range of vocal styles and intricate guitar harmonies gives the group its
varied yet distinct sound.

The Eternal self-produced a short self-titled promotional recording in late 2003 for circulation to media and labels, which sparked significant interest in the band both at home and abroad. On the strength of this recording, they signed a two-album deal with independent Finnish label Firebox Records in late 2003. Their debut album, 'The Sombre Light of Isolation', was recorded at St. Andrew's Studios in early 2004, and was released throughout Europe, Asia and U.S.A in early June of that year. This release elegantly showcased the group's powerful songwriting, structured compositions and disciplined performances. It received critical acclaim from the international press and extensive radio airplay. The Eternal made a triumphant live debut headlining Melbourne's Headbanger's Ball in late 2003, where they were joined on stage by legendary UK doom vocalist Darren White (formerly of Anathema and The Blood Divine). Since then, they supported various high profile local metal acts around the country (Black Majesty, Virgin Black, Nazxul, Chalice), before undertaking their own headline tour of Australia in mid 2004. In late 2004, the band took their massive live sound to grateful audiences in Hong Kong, the U.K., Finland and continental Europe on a 17 date tour in support of their debut album. Following the tour, original drummer Ryan Buesnel left the band and was replaced by Marty O'Shea.

The band's hard work has begun to pay off; they now boast a sizeable international following and were listed in Kerrang! magazine's "50 Bands You Need to Know Right Now". 'The Sombre Light of Isolation' was album of the week at Australian Music Online, and album of the month at Sinister webzine. It was voted 5th best Australian release of 2004 by listeners to Triple J's Full Metal Racket, and nominated as 2nd best Australian album of 2005 by the show's presenter, Andrew Haug. The Eternal are currently rehearsing material for their second album (tentatively titled 'Everlasting') which will be recorded in early 2005 for a release later in the year.

(source: the official The Eternal website, January 2005)

(discography incomplete)