19. Mercyful Fate
Mercyful Fate is a Danish metal band from Copenhagen that formed in 1981. They are not only the greatest metal band to come out of Denmark, but have served as a huge influence on many sub-genres of metal such as death metal, thrash metal, black metal, power metal, and progressive metal. Bands like Metallica, Megadeth, and Testament have all stated that Mercyful Fate played an important role in the evolution of metal.
As influential as Mercyful Fate was in the metal world, that is how unique the vocal work of King Diamond is/was. Known for an extensive vocal range, his use of falsetto is definitely different, but in an awesome way! I can honestly say that there is no singer quite like King Diamond.
Thematically, the band tends to focus on traditional concepts in heavy metal. Topics such as Satan, devil worship, witchcraft, the occult, and did I mention Satan. That said, over the years they have taken a slightly more progressive approach to metal after their initial hiatus. Their albums Melissa and Don't Break the Oath are two of their classic albums that should be owned by any serious metal fan.
Since the early 1990's, they have been more of a progressive metal act releasing concept albums focusing more on horror themes than Satanism. The best of these albums is Into the Unknown.
Here is "Satan's Fall."
And "The Oath."
And "Kutulu The Mad Arab Part 2."
And "Last Rites."
Thanks for reading!
Marty Sabin
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