MERCYFUL FATE · Melissa | BLACK LP

Black vinyl in standard cover with insert.

Background information about 'Melissa'

When Mercyful Fate unleashed "Melissa" in 1983, they didn't just release an album - they conjured a masterpiece that would forever change the landscape of heavy metal. This Danish quintet, led by the theatrical and operatic King Diamond, crafted something truly sinister and sophisticated that bridged the gap between traditional heavy metal and the emerging extreme metal scenes. The album's dark occult themes, intricate guitar work courtesy of Hank Shermann and Michael Denner, and Diamond's falsetto vocals created a template that countless bands would follow for decades to come.

From the opening riff of "Evil" to the epic closing track "Melissa", this record showcases a band at their absolute creative peak. The guitar harmonies are nothing short of mesmerizing, while the rhythm section of Timi Hansen and Kim Ruzz provides the perfect foundation for the band's theatrical horror metal. Songs like "Curse of the Pharaohs" and "Into the Coven" demonstrate the band's ability to weave complex narratives with equally complex musical arrangements, making this album essential listening for anyone serious about understanding metal's evolution.

For fans of: King Diamond, Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, Celtic Frost and Venom

Track listing

A1. Evil
A2. Curse of the Pharaohs
A3. Into the Coven
A4. At the Sound of the Demon Bell
B1. Black Funeral
B2. Satan's Fall
B3. Melissa

Manufacturer: Metal Blade Records GmbH, Friedrichstr. 38, 73033 Göppingen, Germany, Contact: www.metalblade.com