Mercyful Fate

The Profile

Mercyful Fate is a Danish heavy/black metal band formed in Copenhagen in 1981 by vocalist King Diamond and guitarist Hank Shermann. Noted for occult themes and Diamond’s distinctive falsetto, they were pivotal to the first wave of black metal. After splitting in 1985, they reunited from 1992 to 1999 and resumed activity in 2019.

Formed in Copenhagen in 1981 by King Diamond and Hank Shermann, with key early members Michael Denner, Timi Hansen, and Kim Ruzz. Classic albums Melissa (1983) and Don't Break the Oath (1984) are widely regarded as first-wave black metal landmarks. They split in 1985, reformed 1992–1999, and announced a reunion in 2019 with live activity continuing thereafter.

Four DeBaser reviews cover Mercyful Fate’s early EP, the classics Melissa and Don't Break the Oath, and the reunion-era In the Shadows. Reviewers praise King Diamond’s striking falsetto, occult storytelling, and the band’s intricate riffs and shifts. The 1984 split and 1993 return are noted, with Melissa and Don't Break the Oath treated as untouchable landmarks. Overall tone: highly appreciative.