MERCYFUL FATE

"9" (Metal Blade; 1999)

Reviewed by Snidermann

Our esteemed editor R. Scott Bolton was only too happy to give me the latest Mercyful Fate CD to review. He said that the music was killer but King Diamond's voice was like fingernails screeching on a chalk board. Well, Scott, one person's concept of screeching is another person's idea of musical perfection.

I had heard of King Diamond (I always thought he was a Gene Simmons wannabe) and I had heard some good things about Mercyful Fate, but I never really got a chance to sit down and listen closely to either of them. So I was thrilled when I was assigned this CD. Let me tell you, rock fans, Mercyful Fate is one fuckin' bitchin' band ... period. This CD has convinced me that Mercyful Fate is one of rock's premier bands of the late 20th century.  Hard, heavy metal is the recurring theme of this recording and I am nothing but impressed with  this band. This recording is on my A-list now and until something better comes along, it will stay there.  Mercyful Fate gets FOUR FUCKING CHAINSAWS and to hell  with what R. Scott thinks or anybody else who does not like my current favorite band ... ROCK ON MERCYFUL FATE!!!!!!

(Editor's Note: Hey, Snidermann: Whatever chokes your chicken, man...)

King Diamond is: King Diamond, vocals; Hank Shermann, guitar; Mike Wead, guitar; Sherlee D'Angelo, bass; Bjarne T Holm, drums.

Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.

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Copyright © 1999 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights reserved.