Conspiracy is the concept album by King Diamond, being the second part of a story that begun on the album " Them ". It was released in 1989. Conspiracy was the last album to feature original drummer Mikkey Dee (however, he was a studio musician at that time). Roberto Falcao is a guest player on the keyboards.
This album is COMPLETE with OIS, artwork insert and merchandise insert
Black Metal, Thrash Metal
Roadrunner Records RR 9461-1
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
1989 Manufactured in Western Germany.
Rights Society: Stemra
This 12" LP vinyl music record comes comes in a Fold Open Cover (FOC), which is also also known as a Gatefold cover. The inner pages of this album cover contains photos, artwork.
Custom Inner Sleeve Text
Roberto Falcao - Producer
King Diamond - Producer
Andy LaRocque - Producer
Guitar solos produced by: Chris Tsangarides
Notes on the production-team of the Conspiracy album:Roberto Falcao is producer and sound engineer since the first King Diamond record "No Presents for Christmas" on this and other "King Diamond" albums, he is producer, sound engineer and guest performer on the keyboards.
Roberto Falcao - Sound Engineer
Gina Immel - Sound Engineer
Chris Tsangarides - Sound Mix Engineer
Roberto Falcao - Sound Mix Engineer
King Diamond - Sound Mix Engineer
Howie Weinberg - Mastering at Masterdisk, NY
Howie Weinberg is a highly renowned and respected mastering engineer in the music industry. With a career spanning over four decades, he has played an instrumental role in shaping the sound and quality of numerous iconic albums. Born on 14 September 14, 1953, in New York City, Howie's passion for music began at a young age.
In the early 1970s, Weinberg embarked on his journey into the music industry, starting as an assistant engineer at Masterdisk, a leading mastering studio in New York City. Under the guidance of accomplished engineers like Bob Ludwig and Greg Calbi, Howie honed his skills and gained invaluable experience working with a diverse range of artists and genres.
Throughout the 1980s, Weinberg emerged as a prominent figure in the industry, known for his meticulous attention to detail and innovative approach to mastering. His ability to enhance the sonic qualities of recordings and optimize their playback on various formats made him highly sought after by both established and emerging artists.
One of the pivotal moments in Howie Weinberg's career came when he collaborated with renowned producer Rick Rubin on the Beastie Boys' groundbreaking album "Licensed to Ill" in 1986. The success of the album further solidified Howie's reputation as an exceptional mastering engineer. This led to a fruitful partnership with Rubin, and they worked together on a string of influential albums, including releases by Slayer, Public Enemy, and Johnny Cash.
Weinberg's remarkable talent for mastering became evident in his ability to capture the essence of an artist's vision while adding his expertise to create a polished and dynamic final product. His work on Nirvana's iconic album "Nevermind" in 1991 is a testament to his ability to bring out the best in a recording, with his mastering contributing to the album's raw energy and sonic impact.
Over the years, Howie Weinberg has collaborated with a wide array of artists and bands from various genres, including U2, The White Stripes, Smashing Pumpkins, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and many others. His discography boasts an extensive list of critically acclaimed and commercially successful albums, solidifying his position as one of the most influential mastering engineers of his time.
In 1995, Howie Weinberg opened his own mastering studio, Howie Weinberg Mastering, in Los Angeles. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a deep understanding of the mastering process, the studio became a go-to destination for artists seeking the highest level of audio quality for their projects.
Throughout his career, Weinberg has been recognized with numerous accolades, including several Grammy nominations and wins for his exceptional contributions to the music industry. He is highly respected by his peers and has been a mentor to many aspiring mastering engineers, passing on his knowledge and expertise to the next generation.
Howie Weinberg's unwavering dedication to his craft and his ability to elevate the sonic experience of countless albums have solidified his position as a true master of his art. His meticulous attention to detail, technical expertise, and passion for music continue to shape the industry and inspire generations of mastering engineers to strive for excellence.
This album was recorded and mixed at: Rumbo Recorders, Canoga Park, CA
Studio Dzyan - Album Cover Artwork
Studio Dzyan ( album artwork and graphics design ) was founded by Thorbjorn Jorgensen and has worked with both Thomas Holm and Thorbjorn Jorgensen to illustrate 1980s albums by "King Diamond" and "Spartan Warrior".
Thomas Holm - Album Cover Artwork
Thomas Holm started his career as art designer in the early 1980's and has done the album covers for bands like: Mercyful Fate, King Diamond, Spartan Warrior, Dark Heart.
Thorbjorn Jorgenson - Album Cover Artwork
Torbjorn Jorgensen a Swedish illustrator and graphic designer and member/founder of the Studio Dzyan in Malmö. Torbjorn has been working on all the artwork for the albums of Mercyful Fate, King Diamond, S.P.O.C.K, Lord Belial and many others.
Krasner/Trebitz - Front Cover Photography
Krasner / Trebitz Photography are a photography company comprised of Bob Krasner and Debra Trebitz, photographing bands like: King Diamond, Crimson Glory, Banshee, Scorpions, Doctor Nerve.
Alex Solca
Alex Solca is an esteemed photographer who has made an indelible mark in the world of music photography, particularly in the realm of Heavy Metal. With several decades of experience capturing the raw energy and captivating essence of numerous renowned bands, Solca has become an iconic figure in the industry.
Born with an innate passion for both music and visual arts, Alex Solca embarked on his photographic journey at an early age. Growing up in a vibrant cultural scene, he was drawn to the rebellious and powerful nature of Heavy Metal music. This fascination led him to combine his two passions, giving birth to a career that would redefine music photography.
Solca's work with Heavy Metal bands spans a vast array of genres, from classic and progressive rock to thrash and death metal. His distinctive style is characterized by an ability to freeze moments in time, capturing the essence of the music and the emotions it evokes. Through his lens, Solca has managed to immortalize the larger-than-life personalities of some of the most iconic bands and musicians in the history of Heavy Metal.
Over the years, Solca has had the privilege of photographing a multitude of legendary acts, including Journey, Dio, Alice Cooper, Fates Warning, King Diamond, Mercyful Fate, Vasco Rossi, Glenn Hughes, Jeff Blades, Jeff Scott Soto, Danzig, Lee Rocker, Reo Speedwagon, Machine Head, Tower of Power, B'Z, Skinlab, Gotthard, Dave Weckl, Kyuss, Christopher Cross, and countless others. His body of work serves as a testament to his versatility and enduring passion for the art form.
Beyond his technical skills, Solca possesses a unique ability to connect with the musicians he photographs. He understands their passion, their struggles, and their desire to express themselves through their music. This empathetic approach allows him to capture moments that not only showcase the artists' stage presence but also reveal their vulnerability and humanity.
Alex Solca's photographs have graced the pages of prestigious music magazines, album covers, and concert posters worldwide. His images have become synonymous with the spirit of Heavy Metal, influencing generations of aspiring photographers and leaving an indelible mark on the genre's visual history.
While Heavy Metal remains his primary focus, Solca's portfolio extends beyond the genre. He has also explored other musical realms, capturing the essence of jazz, blues, and rock 'n' roll icons. His ability to adapt his style to different genres demonstrates his versatility and artistic range.
Throughout his illustrious career, Alex Solca has received numerous accolades and honors for his contributions to music photography. His work continues to inspire and captivate audiences, preserving the spirit and energy of Heavy Metal for future generations to experience.
As the music industry evolves, Alex Solca remains at the forefront, capturing the ever-changing landscape of Heavy Metal and other genres. With his keen eye, unwavering passion, and decades of experience, he continues to redefine the boundaries of music photography, leaving an enduring legacy that will forever be etched in the world of rock history.
Kim Bendix Petersen, better known by his stage name King Diamond, is a legendary Danish heavy metal musician whose haunting vocals and captivating stage presence have made him an icon in the world of metal. Renowned for his extensive vocal range and his distinctive use of falsetto, King Diamond has left an indelible mark on the genre with his dark and atmospheric compositions. With a career spanning several decades, he has fronted various bands, including Mercyful Fate and his eponymous band, King Diamond, solidifying his status as a true master of metal.
Born on 14 June 1956, in Copenhagen, Denmark, Kim Bendix Petersen was introduced to music at a young age. Influenced by classic rock and early heavy metal acts, he embarked on his musical journey in 1974 as a guitarist for the band Brainstorm. However, it was his transition to vocals and the formation of the band Black Rose in 1979 that marked a turning point in his career. The emergence of King Diamond's powerful voice and his ability to reach soaring high notes set him apart from other vocalists of the time, establishing his signature style that would define his future endeavors.
In 1980, King Diamond joined forces with Hank Shermann to form Mercyful Fate, a band that would become a prominent figure in the burgeoning metal scene. With their occult-inspired lyrics and intricate song structures, Mercyful Fate carved a niche for themselves, attracting a dedicated following. King Diamond's eerie vocal delivery, characterized by his piercing falsetto, added an element of darkness and mystique to the band's music, earning them a reputation as one of the most influential acts in the genre.
During his time with Mercyful Fate, King Diamond released several highly acclaimed albums, including "Melissa" (1983), "Don't Break the Oath" (1984), and "In the Shadows" (1993). These albums showcased his unique vocal prowess and his ability to convey chilling narratives with his lyrics. King Diamond's theatrical stage presence, complete with elaborate makeup and costumes, further enhanced the band's live performances, creating an immersive experience for fans.
In 1985, King Diamond embarked on a solo career, forming his eponymous band. With a focus on storytelling and concept albums, King Diamond continued to captivate audiences with his gothic horror narratives. His solo albums, such as "Abigail" (1987), "Them" (1988), and "The Eye" (1990), demonstrated his ability to create intricate musical compositions that were both musically impressive and emotionally evocative. King Diamond's haunting falsetto served as the perfect vehicle for his dark tales of madness, ghosts, and the supernatural, solidifying his status as a master of macabre storytelling.
Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, King Diamond released a series of successful albums, including "The Puppet Master" (2003) and "Give Me Your Soul...Please" (2007). His dedication to crafting concept albums that transported listeners into his twisted worlds remained unwavering, cementing his reputation as a true visionary in the metal genre. King Diamond's influence on subsequent generations of musicians cannot be overstated, as his unique vocal style and theatrical approach have inspired countless artists in the realm of heavy metal.
In addition to his musical contributions, King Diamond's longevity and unwavering dedication to his craft are testament to his enduring impact on the metal scene. His ability to reinvent himself while staying true to his artistic vision has allowed him to remain relevant and revered throughout the years. King Diamond's live performances, complete with his mesmerizing stage presence and unwavering vocal delivery, continue to draw fans from all corners of the globe, showcasing his ability to captivate audiences with his dark and haunting melodies.
Kim Bendix Petersen, known to the world as King Diamond, has left an indelible mark on the heavy metal genre. His powerful falsetto, coupled with his penchant for storytelling and his mesmerizing stage presence, have solidified his status as one of the most influential and iconic figures in metal history. As he continues to create music and enthrall audiences with his chilling tales, King Diamond's legacy as the master of metal's haunting melodies remains intact, forever etched in the world of heavy metal history.
Anders Allhage mostly known under the alias: " Andy LaRocque " and is best known as guitarist with King Diamond. He started his musical career in the Swedish "Swedish Beauty" aka "Swedish Erotica" and E.F. Band he moved in 1985-1986 to play with the "King Diamond" band.
LaRocque started playing guitar at the age of 11 and was heavily influenced by hard rock and heavy metal bands such as Black Sabbath and Judas Priest. He formed his first band, Black Rose, in the early 1980s and later joined forces with King Diamond to form the band Mercyful Fate. After several years with Mercyful Fate, LaRocque and King Diamond formed the eponymous band King Diamond in 1985.
Throughout his career, LaRocque has been known for his intricate and technical guitar playing, which has earned him a reputation as one of the top guitarists in the heavy metal genre. He has also been involved in the production of many of King Diamond's albums, as well as albums by other artists in the heavy metal and hard rock genres.
Overall, Andy LaRocque is regarded as one of the most talented and influential guitarists in the heavy metal genre, and his contributions to the genre have earned him a place in the world of heavy metal history.
Pete Blakk, born Peter Blakkis in Denmark in 1965, embarked on his musical journey fueled by a passion for the guitar. Influenced by the burgeoning metal scene of the '80s, Blakk honed his skills, showcasing early signs of the guitar virtuoso he would become. The energetic atmosphere of the era fueled his determination to make a mark in the world of heavy metal.
Rising with GEISHA (1985-1988):
In 1985, Pete Blakk joined forces with other talented musicians to form the heavy metal band GEISHA. His technical prowess on the guitar quickly became a defining element of the band's sound. The collaboration resulted in the creation of three impactful demos, setting the stage for the release of their only full-length album, "Phantasmagoria," in 1988. Blakk's intricate solos and innovative approach marked him as a standout guitarist in the Danish metal scene.
A Royal Collaboration with King Diamond (1988-1991):
Following GEISHA's disbandment in 1988, Pete Blakk's journey took a royal turn as he joined forces with the legendary King Diamond. Becoming the lead guitarist for King Diamond, Blakk played a crucial role in albums like "Conspiracy" (1989) and "The Eye" (1990). His tenure with King Diamond solidified his reputation as a versatile guitarist, contributing significantly to the band's distinctive sound.
Post-King Diamond Ventures and Musical Explorations (1991-Present):
After parting ways with King Diamond in 1991, Pete Blakk continued his musical explorations, showcasing his versatility and adaptability. While specific details about this period may vary, Blakk's post-King Diamond ventures attest to his enduring commitment to musical excellence.
Legacy and Influence:
Pete Blakk's legacy in the world of heavy metal remains indelible. His contributions to GEISHA and King Diamond showcase a guitarist who not only mastered technical intricacies but also left an artistic imprint on the genre. Blakk's influence on aspiring guitarists and his impact on the golden era of metal continue to be celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike.
Hasse "Hal" Patino (bass, guitars) is a Danish bassist renowned for his significant contributions to the metal genre. Raised in Copenhagen, he embarked on his musical journey in the 1980s. Patino gained widespread recognition when he joined the iconic King Diamond in 1988, marking a pivotal moment in his career. His distinctive bass lines became a hallmark of the band's sound.
Patino's musical prowess and stage presence quickly endeared him to fans worldwide. His tenure with King Diamond spanned several albums, including the critically acclaimed "Them" (1988) and "Conspiracy" (1989). His bass work on these albums showcased a perfect blend of technical proficiency and creative flair, earning him accolades within the metal community.
Beyond his affiliation with King Diamond, Patino engaged in various musical projects, collaborating with notable artists and exploring diverse musical styles. His versatility as a bassist allowed him to seamlessly transition between different genres, solidifying his reputation as a dynamic and accomplished musician.
Hasse "Hal" Patino is one of the cornerstones of the development of Heavy Metal from Denmark. He performed as "Hal" Patino in the band " Maltese Falcon ", before joining Geisha in 1988. After the split of Geisha he went together with Pete Blakk to join the King Diamond band.
Mikkey Dee, whose birth name is actually Micael Kiriakos Delaoglou, is a Swedish drummer known for his contributions to several prominent rock and metal bands. His career spans over three decades, and he has established himself as a highly skilled and influential musician.
Mikkey Dee began his professional journey in 1985 when he joined the Danish heavy metal band King Diamond. He played drums for the band and participated in the recording of their album "Fatal Portrait" released in the same year. He continued to work with King Diamond on their subsequent albums, including "Abigail" (1987) and "Them" (1988).
In 1990, Mikkey Dee switched to American hard rock band Dokken. He played drums for Dokken for a brief period before joining the iconic British rock band Motörhead in 1992. His tenure with Motörhead lasted for more than two decades and became one of the defining chapters of his career. Mikkey Dee's powerful drumming style and stage presence greatly contributed to Motörhead's signature sound and their energetic live performances. He played on several of the band's albums, including "Bastards" (1993), "Sacrifice" (1995), "Inferno" (2004), and "Aftershock" (2013), among others.
Sadly, Motörhead disbanded in 2015 following the death of frontman Lemmy Kilmister. Mikkey Dee then became a member of the German rock band Scorpions in 2016. He took over the position of their drummer following the retirement of longtime Scorpions drummer James Kottak. Mikkey Dee's inclusion in Scorpions added a new dynamic to the band's sound and live performances.
Throughout his career, Mikkey Dee has earned a reputation as a highly skilled and versatile drummer. His powerful and precise drumming style, combined with his energetic stage presence, has made him a respected figure in the rock and metal music scenes. He has made significant contributions to the development and success of the bands he has been a part of, leaving a lasting impact on the genre.
RoadRunner RR 9603 , 1987 , Holland / The Netherlands
The definitive collector's addition to the Mercyful Fate Catalogue featuring the band's official pre-Melissa recordings - The legendary Rave-On sessions (Fully re-mastered) The BBC "Friday Rock Show"
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RoadrunneR RR 9835 , 1984 , Made in Holland ( The Netherlands)
"Don't Break The Oath" is the 1984 and 2nd studio album by the Danish Heavy Metal band "Mercyful Fate". It was produced by Henrik Lund and recorded at Easy Sound Recording Studio
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Satan's Nightmare SN1002 , 1984 , UK ( United Kingdom )
This album "MERCYFUL FATE From the Depth of Hell" is an unofficial (bootleg record) album of this band of Mercyfull Fate. Title on the front cover and record's label are slightly different.
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Satan's Nightmare SN 1002 , 2013
This album is an unofficial (bootleg) album of this band Mercyfull Fate. Limited to 500 copies reissue on red vinyl. Classic and ultra hard to find semi official Mercyful Fate fan club recordings.
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Bernett Records SB 18011 , 1984 , France
"MERCYFUL FATE Melissa Bernett France" is the debut album of Danish black metal band Mercyful Fate released in 1983. Produced by: Henrik Lund, Roadster Music and recorded at: Easy Sound Recording Copenhagen
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Attic Records LAT 1187 , 1983 , Made in Canada
The Canadian release "MERCYFUL FATE Melissa " the debut album of Danish black metal band Mercyful Fate released in 1983. Produced by Henrik Lund, Roadster Music and recorded at: Easy Sound Recording Copenhagen
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Roadrunner RR 9898 , 1983 , Holland ( The Netherlands )
The Dutch issue of "MERCYFUL FATE Melissa " the debut album of Danish black metal band Mercyful Fate released in 1983. Produced by Henrik Lund, Roadster Music and recorded at: Easy Sound Recording Copenhagen
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RoadRunner RR 9184 , 1992 , Holland ( The Netherlands )
"Return of the Vampire" is the compilation album of rare demo tracks by Mercyful Fate recorded before their first, official release in 1982. It is also released in 1992 by Roadrunner Records RR 9184.
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Rave-On Records RLP-011 , 1985 , Netherlands
This album "VA Rave-On Hits Hard" includes tracks by the bands: Mercyful Fate , Astaroth, H-Bomb, Crossfire, Evil, H-Bomb, Gilgamasj, Sortilege. It was produced by Stefan Rooyackers, Jac Hustinx.
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Bernett Records SB 18011 , 1984 , France
This is the French release of the album "Melissa" by "Mercyful Fate" it was the debut album of Danish black metal band "Mercyful Fate" released in 1983 and release in France. Produced by Henrik Lund.
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Attic Records LAT 1187 , 1983 , Canada
This is the Canadian release of the album "Melissa" by "Mercyful Fate" it was the debut album of Danish black metal band "Mercyful Fate" released in 1983 and released in Canada. Produced by Henrik Lund.
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Roadrunner RR 9898 , Roadrunner RR 9898 , Holland ( The Netherlands)
This is the Netherlands release of the album "Melissa" by "Mercyful Fate" it was he debut album of the Danish metal band "Mercyful Fate" released 1983 Holland. Produced by Henrik Lund
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RoadrunneR RR 9184 , 1992 , Country
"Return of the Vampire" is the compilation album of rare demo tracks by Mercyful Fate recorded before their first, official release in 1982. It is re-released in 1992 by Roadrunner Records RR 9184.
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