With that said, there are thousands of themes out there. I'm sure a few might meet your requirements. Unfortunately, it may take a long time to find them.
Finally, you might start with a skeleton theme instead, and build up your own without all the whizbang. As I agree with you about commercial themes, that's what I do.
- I came across this beautiful quote and it had quite an impact on me : "The best way to complain is to make things happen" If its bothering you, you should probably create a theme and sell it on wordpress.
- I have found some themes which are minimal and "blob-free" on wordpress but they cost money : search for single / two column themes & minimal themes - you should be able to find them.