MERCYFUL FATE (Pix from Reunion 1993 “In The Shadows” Tour) – Back In Time with Metal Photographer Bill O’Leary #mercyfulfate #kingdiamond

MERCYFUL  FATE

    I photographed Mercyful Fate in 1993 supporting the In the Shadows album, this was the first reunion of the band after breaking up in 1985. I had seen them back on the Don’t Break the Oath tour in 1984 but did not take pictures at that time. They are one of the most influential bands of the Black Metal genre along with Venom and Bathory. Vocalist King Diamond with his trademark falsetto style of vocals are very unique to say the least, most either loved it or loathed it.

      The dual guitar sound of guitarists Hank Shermann and Michael Denner was the benchmark for the European metal sound. I always felt like they sounded like a combination of old Ulrich Roth (Scorpions) and Michael Schenker (UFO), not a bad combination in my book. On this night, they played all the classics from their first two albums as well as great new songs such as Egypt and The Old Oak, quick to become favorites of mine. Stunning guitar playing thru vintage instruments and gear.