King Diamond, the iconic Danish heavy metal artist known for his theatrical stage shows and chilling falsetto vocals, has always embraced the macabre. His 1988 EP "The Dark Sides" exemplifies this fascination, serving as a concentrated dose of his signature brand of horror-infused metal.
Historical Context
"The Dark Sides" arrived during a pivotal period in King Diamond's career. It followed the success of his groundbreaking concept albums "Abigail" (1987) and "Them" (1988). Fans were hungry for more of the band's unique blend of intricate storytelling, complex musicianship, and shocking theatrics. This EP stands as a testament to his creative drive and growing popularity within the metal scene.
Musical Exploration
While "The Dark Sides" functions as a compilation of sorts, it's a carefully curated glimpse into different facets of King Diamond's sound. The EP features tracks pulled from various albums and singles. Songs like "Halloween" and "Them" are classic King Diamond, complete with twisting guitar harmonies, chilling keyboard work, and multi-layered stories that delve into realms of the occult and supernatural. On the other hand, selections like "No Presents for Christmas" or the eerie "Phone Call" showcase the band's occasional forays into dark humor and sonic experimentation.
Controversy: Religion and Shock
Like many of his works, "The Dark Sides" stirred controversy. King Diamond's lyrics often explore themes of Satanism, blasphemy, and the macabre. This, naturally, drew disapproval and sometimes outright hostility from religious groups. His theatrical stage shows, which incorporated elements like simulated sacrifices and inverted crosses, further fueled the fire. Yet, King Diamond always maintained that his work derived from horror storytelling traditions rather than any genuine anti-religious sentiment.
Venue and the Band
It's also crucial to recognize the talented musicians behind King Diamond. Guitarists Andy LaRocque and Michael Denner crafted the intricate guitar work that's a hallmark of the band's sound. Bassist Hal Patino and drummer Mikkey Dee formed the backbone of the rhythm section. All of them contributed to the menacing yet sophisticated atmosphere found on "The Dark Sides".
