MERCYFUL FATE - Return of the Vampire Heavy Metal is the compilation album of rare demo tracks by Mercyful Fate recorded before their first, official release in 1982. It is released in 1992 by Roadrunner Records RR 9184 Vinyl Album Gallery #vinylrecords

Mercyful Fate's 'Return of the Vampire': Unearthing the Roots of a Metal Revolution

Album Description:

In the world of heavy metal, few bands cast as long and influential a shadow as Denmark's Mercyful Fate. With their theatrical stage presence, King Diamond's operatic vocals, and a sound that blended classic metal with elements of the occult and the macabre, they carved out a unique niche in the genre's landscape. 'Return of the Vampire', a compilation of early demo tracks released in 1992, offers a fascinating glimpse into the band's formative years, revealing the raw energy and unbridled ambition that would ultimately propel them to legendary status.

Released at a time when Mercyful Fate was already a well-established force in the metal world, 'Return of the Vampire' served as a reminder of their humble beginnings. The album's tracks, recorded between 1980 and 1981, showcase a band still finding its footing, experimenting with different sounds and styles while laying the groundwork for the groundbreaking albums that would follow.

The production, while rough around the edges compared to the band's later releases, captures the raw intensity and unpolished energy of their early performances. Recorded at various studios in Copenhagen, including Stone Studio and M-M Sound, the album's sound is a testament to the DIY spirit that permeated the early 80s metal scene.

Musically, 'Return of the Vampire' is a treasure trove for fans of Mercyful Fate's signature sound. The album features early versions of classic tracks like "Burning the Cross" and "Curse of the Pharaohs," showcasing the band's evolving songwriting prowess and King Diamond's already impressive vocal range. The twin guitar attack of Hank Shermann and Michael Denner is as fierce and intricate as ever, while the rhythm section of Timi Hansen and Kim Ruzz lays down a solid foundation for the band's sonic onslaught.

Lyrically, the album explores themes that would become synonymous with Mercyful Fate's music: the occult, black magic, and the darker side of human nature. King Diamond's storytelling is already in full effect, painting vivid pictures of ancient rituals, demonic possession, and the eternal struggle between good and evil.

While 'Return of the Vampire' may not have garnered the same level of controversy as some of Mercyful Fate's later releases, it still courted its share of criticism from conservative groups who objected to the band's dark imagery and lyrical themes. However, for fans of the band, the album was a welcome addition to their discography, offering a glimpse into the creative process that fueled their rise to prominence.

In retrospect, 'Return of the Vampire' is more than just a collection of demo tracks; it's a historical document, capturing a pivotal moment in the evolution of one of heavy metal's most influential bands.

Music Genre:

Heavy Metal

Album Production Information:

The album: "MERCYFUL FATE - Return of the Vampire" was produced by: Mercyful Fate

This album was recorded live in the studio, with the exception of solos and vocals which were overdubbed

Guest musician was "Lars Ulrich (Metallica) on the track "In the Shadows"

Record Label & Catalognr:

RoadrunneR RR 9184

Media Format:

12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram

Year & Country:

1992

Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: MERCYFUL FATE - Return of the Vampire

King Diamond - Vocals
King Diamond (born Kim Bendix Petersen) emerged in the 1980s as a pioneering force in heavy metal. Fronting Mercyful Fate and later his solo band, his piercing falsetto and occult storytelling redefined the genre. Albums like Melissa (1983) and Abigail (1987) cemented his legacy as a theatrical metal visionary. Explore the World of King Diamond.
Hank Shermann - Guitar, bass
Rene Krolmark is from Denmark and was born in 1958. He is also known under the aliases Hank De Wank, Hank Shermann started his musical career as guitar player in 1977 with a band called Brats, this was followed by "Danger Zone", "Mercyful Fate", Fate, Lavina, "Zoser Mez"
Benny Petersen - Guitar
Benny Peterson, a Danish guitarist, made his mark in the early ’80s with Mercyful Fate, playing during 1981-82. A staple of Denmark’s hard rock and heavy metal scene, he lent his chops to top-tier bands like Evil, Pretty Maids, and more, shaping the raw, aggressive sound that defined the era.
Michael Denner - Guitar
Michael Denner, a Danish heavy-metal guitarist, is best known for his work with Mercyful Fate and King Diamond bands, where his intricate solos and dark, melodic riffs helped define the band’s occult-laced sound. Playing on classics like Melissa (1983) and Don’t Break the Oath (1984), his contributions shaped heavy metal’s evolution.
Timi "Grabber" Hansen - Bass
Timi “Grabber” Hansen (5 October 1958 – 4 November 2019) was a Danish bassist best known for his work with Mercyful Fate and King Diamond. His thunderous bass lines helped define the band’s dark, heavy sound, influencing generations of metal musicians. A key figure in the early black metal scene, his legacy remains strong. Learn more about Timi Hansen.
Kim Ruzz - Drums
Kim Ruzz (born Kim Thyge Jensen) was the drummer for Mercyful Fate on their first three releases, helping shape the band’s early black metal sound. His stage name was inspired by Rush, his favorite band. After Mercyful Fate disbanded in 1985, Ruzz stepped away from drumming and later relocated to the United States.
Carsten Volsing - Guitar
Carsten van Der Volsing (real-name: Carsten Falkenlind Volsing) is from Copenhagen, Denmark and has played guitar in the bands: Brats and "Mercyful Fate".
"Old" Nick Smith - drums
"Old" Nick Smith plays with the "Danger Zone" band on their first two demo recordings, as well with "Mercyful Fate" on their first two demo recordings.
Jan Musen - drums
Jan Musen (Real-name: Jan Lindblad) born in 1960 Copenhagen, Denmark, drummer with "Mercyful Fate" during 1981.