Rave-On Records - 1982
7.5/10
Before Mercyful Fate signed to Roadrunner and put out one of the greatest metal albums of all time, they'd have a bit of a trial run. Their first EP simply titled Mercyful Fate certainly wasted no time to make a statement, if the album art alone doesn't give that away. Moreover, the lyrics jump right into the dark territory that King Diamond and co. would stay within, giving a taste of their sped-up brand of heavy metal as a sample. The lineup is also the same, making it surprising that there was such a drastic shift in creativity following just one year.
I say this, because despite how strong some of the chops that Mercyful Fate beheld are, it was clearly underdeveloped by a landslide. King Diamond hadn't yet gotten down the way to project those howling outbursts that feel compelling rather than overwhelming, and the songs themselves don't stick together super well. That's not to say they aren't good, as I do enjoy every track on this album, but it's null of one clear direction outside of doing heavy metal and writing about Satan. But really, could you ask much more from a debut EP?
Absolutely not, and that's why I'll forgive this, as all four tracks have some level of charm. Opener "A Corpse Without Soul" boasts some of the tightest guitar licks and solos one could open with, cranking out six minutes of strong leads. Personally, I think Denner and Sherman outdo King on this EP, and the first track is the most blatant example, as their guitar work is pristine while his vocals get to be a lot. "Nuns Have No Fun" follows, focusing more on melody with a dash of some of their most raunchy lyrics. "Doomed By The Living Dead" jumps back to the former tricks of looking more towards intricacy, while closer "Devil Eyes" is nothing more than a rock 'n roll number with steady drum taps and a repetitive chorus.
For a debut cut of only four songs, it would be fair to say that Mercyful Fate started out on the right foot. You may have to get past the rough production and vocals, a lack of clear narrative, and a bit of edginess, but overall this is something I enjoy revisiting. I described Don't Break The Oath as an album written by adults that are fascinated by the occult and evil. This one leans closer to music meant to piss off religious parents. At the expense of sounding contrarian, I think this gets a little overhyped, and had another band without that massive name done it, the praise wouldn't be as high. If you're new to the band, listen to the first two albums, then give this a listen.
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