Mercyful Fate was one of the high points of traditional heavy metal in the 1980s, exerting huge influence through their over-the-top visual aesthetic and elaborate, theatrical songwriting. They arguably peaked on 1984’s Don’t Break The Oath; later works by both this band and its frontman’s project (King Diamond) varied in their ability to capture such high points.
October 2nd will see yet another effort from the band’s musicians – alumni from the band have united to form Denner/Shermann, and to release Satan’s Tomb, an EP of material in a similar but presumably modernized vein. The release date and album title are probably going to draw comparison to the band Satan’s upcoming album on the same day (Atom by Atom), despite definite differences in style. While our knowledge of Denner/Shermann’s sound and approach is less confirmed at this point, I’m fairly certain they need a better marketer on their side; at least as evidenced by the questionable decisions of the following trailer.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WfllsliM_xY
Tags: 2015, denner/sherman, mercyful fate, satan's tomb, traditional metal
That trailer sold me. It told the target audience exactly what they needed to know to buy the record. I lost it at “Snowy Shaw on the drums.”
Hey Gabe, what about Symphony X? They released their ninth studio album a few months ago.
Probably worth discussing at some point, but I’ve never actually sat down and listened to Symphony X. As of this comment, I have no strong opinion on them. This may change in the future, depending on what I can fit in.
“SINISTER VOCALS”
“DARK CRYPTIC LYRICS”
hahaha.
Lame overproduced+sterile stuff, but it’s a bunch of old professional guitar guys playing metal with 2015 technology, of course I didn’t expect anything like the demented genius of Melissa/DBtO.
I’m reminded of that Black Sabbath “Devil You Know” project with Dio: great cover art, noble intentions, but ultimately, meh.
Don’t judge what you haven’t heard. It might be very good. Certainly better than the newer King Diamond digitally reamped bullshit.
The drummer’s named Snowy as he’s fond of nasal decongestants.
I’ve listened to it and the promo video essentially summarizes the sound and feel of the entire EP. Denner, Shermann, and Shaw were of course technically excellent. I’m not really familiar with the vocalist or the bassist, though I didn’t really care for Peck’s vocals a whole lot; kind of a generic US power metal sound. The bass was very well-done, however, and was pretty high in the mix. The production was great. “Seven Skulls” was the standout track for sure, since it had a nice mixture of classic MF influences and a slightly thicker, more modern sound. Overall, it’s well-executed and there are some great moments but “Satan’s Tomb” doesn’t really take any risks. I’d give it like a 3/5 based primarily on the strength of the musicianship.