- The Crown Jewels: Exploring King Diamond's Vinyl Discography with Stunning Album Covers Gallery
In the realm of heavy metal, where darkness and theatrics intertwine, one name reigns supreme — King Diamond. Hailing from Denmark, this iconic metal band has carved a niche for themselves with their hauntingly theatrical performances and sinister soundscapes. Let's delve into the rich history of King Diamond, exploring the band's inception, key milestones, and the dark artistry that defines their legacy.
The Genesis:
King Diamond, the eponymous band, was formed in 1985 by the enigmatic vocalist Kim Bendix Petersen, better known as King Diamond. Prior to this venture, King Diamond was the lead vocalist for Mercyful Fate, another influential Danish metal band. The transition from Mercyful Fate to King Diamond marked a pivotal moment in the history of heavy metal, as it allowed King Diamond to unleash his creative vision in a new and captivating way.
Concept Albums and Dark Narratives:
What sets King Diamond apart is their penchant for concept albums — albums that tell a cohesive story from start to finish. The band's debut album, "Fatal Portrait" (1986), introduced fans to the narrative-driven approach that would become their trademark. As the band evolved, subsequent releases like "Abigail" (1987), "Them" (1988), and "Conspiracy" (1989) continued to weave intricate tales of horror, mystery, and the supernatural.
Musical Prowess and Lineup Changes:
Beyond the captivating storytelling, King Diamond's musical prowess is undeniable. The intricate guitar work, courtesy of musicians like Andy LaRocque, contributes to the band's distinctive sound. Over the years, the lineup has seen changes, but the core of King Diamond's musical identity has remained intact, ensuring a consistent and powerful delivery of their dark narratives.
Legacy and Influence:
King Diamond's influence extends far beyond the borders of Denmark. Their theatrical stage presence and storytelling prowess have inspired countless bands within the metal genre. The impact of albums like "Them" and "Abigail" is still felt in the metal community, and King Diamond's legacy endures as a beacon of creativity and innovation.
Summary:
King Diamond, the Danish heavy metal maestros, emerged from the shadows in 1985, led by the enigmatic vocalist King Diamond. Their transition from Mercyful Fate marked a pivotal moment, leading to a series of concept albums that wove dark narratives. With a lineup showcasing musical prowess, the band's legacy extends globally, influencing generations of metal enthusiasts.
RoadrunneR RR 9622 , 1987 , Netherlands
First release of Abigail the photo of Andy La Roque on the right hand side of album back cover."Abigail" is the second "King Diamond" album and their first concept album, 1987 Roadrunner Records.
Abigail Netherlands RoadrunneR 12" Vinyl LPMusic on Vinyl MOVLP1238 , 2014 , Made in EU
Audiophile High Quality release of King Diamond album "Abigail". Released in 2014 on the record label "Music on Vinyl" with catalognr: MOVLP1238. Produced by Robert Falcoa and King Diamond.
Abigail released by Music On Vinyl 2014 12" Vinyl LPMetal Blade Records – 3984-14379-1 , 2012 , Germany
Abigail II pressed ob Black and White Splatter Vinyl is the album by King Diamond and is plotwise a successor to the 1987 album Abigail. The cover art was done by Travis Smith, Metal Blade Records
Abigail released by Music On Vinyl 2014 12" Vinyl LPMetal Blade Records /Archaic Temple Productions Treasure 003 , 2004
This album "KING DIAMOND AND BLACK ROSE - 20 Years Ago - A Night Of Rehearsal" In fact it is a rehearsal tape of a pre-Mercyful Fate band featuring King Diamond on vocals, named Black Rose.
20 Years Ago - A Night Of Rehearsal 12" VINYL LPRoadrunneR Records RR 9461-1 , 1989 , Netherlands
"Conspiracy" is the concept album by King Diamond, being the second part of a story that begun on the album "Them". This is the Dutch ( The Netherlands ) pressing andwas released in 1989.
Conspiracy Netherlands Release 12" Vinyl LPRoadrunner RR 2455 , 1988 , Holland ( The Netherlands )
"The Dark Sides" A rare 6 track vinyl EP by King Diamond. It was produced by: King Diamond, Roberto Falcao. This web-page has detailed information on each of the tracks on this vinyl record.
The Dark Sides - Heavy Metal From DenmarkRoadrunneR RR 9721 , 1985 , The Netherlands
"Fatal Portrait" the debut album by Danish heavy metal band "King Diamond". Released in 1986 on Roadrunner Records. Listed are the difference of the first release "Fatal Portrait" and re-releases.
Fatal Portrait Netherlands Release 12" Vinyl LPRoadrunner Records RR 125485 , 1985 , The Netherlands
"No Presents for Christmas" the first record released by King Diamond band and is released 1985. The track is later made available as a bonus track on one of the later re-issues of "Fatal Portrait".
No Presents for Christmas - 12" Maxi-Single Vinyl RecordRoadrunneR RR 9346 , 1990 , Holland ( The Netherlands)
"The Eye" a concept album by King Diamond released 1990. It continues to feature a major storyline such as other albums, though it is told differently. It is the only album with drum programming.
The Eye incl OIS Netherlands Release 12" Vinyl LPMetal Blade Records 3984-15316-1 , 1990-2014 , USA
This is an re-issue of King Diamond's album "The Eye" pressed on 180 grams audiophile vinyl "The Eye" a concept album by King Diamond released 1990. It continues to feature a major storyline
The Eye USA Metal Blade Records Re-issue 12" Vinyl LPRoadrunneR RR 9550 1 , 1981 , Holland ( The Netherlands )
This album "Them" is the third album recorded by the Danish Heavy Metal / Thrash Metal singer: "King Diamond". This release has been Manufactured in The Netherlands and Made in Holland
Them Netherlands Release 12" Vinyl LP