Post by Dr Demented on Nov 22, 2004 20:58:59 GMT -5
I decided to post the review here...if you haven't bought this yet, what are you waiting for? www.darkdomain.us/king.html
King Diamond-The Puppetmaster As Reviewed By: Michael Griffey II
I finally received my copy of King's newest album today and immediately put it in my computer and put the headphones on...and all I can say is, "Wow".
This album has something for everyone, old fans and new. From the opening track, "Midnight" to Andy's final plucks on "Living Dead," this album rocks. Touted as more graphic and gory than King's other works, this is the story of an unfortunate man and his true love...and how they fall into a trap of nasty proportions.
Although the story is bloody, I was expecting something more gruesome. Then again, I'm the kind of guy who has seen everything, and is no longer terrified by run-of-the-mill murder or re-animation. However, King tells his story with such conviction that you can see the characters living their parts in the theater of your mind.
My favorite tracks were, "The Puppetmaster," "Blue Eyes," "So Sad," and "Living Dead". These were the strongest songs on the CD, although they all have their qualities and as is the case with most KD albums, if you take one out, you ruin the story.
The music is top-notch, although I noticed that his vocals were quieter in the mix and his high screams seemed to be muted a little...reminiscent of "Conspiracy". From statements made by King himself, this IS part of the design. He performs his parts as they pertain to the story, to give them more true feeling, and it shows in songs such as "So Sad". If, after listening to this song, you don't feel a tightness in your chest and a tear fighting to drip from your eyes; you are not human.
"Blood To Walk" is the more commercial song on the CD, and was the single pre-released on the Metal Blade website. I like this song, but I could understand why some would shy away from it's verse-chorus-verse style. Catchy tune, though.
Andy and Mike's leads are executed perfectly, as one would expect, and they trade solo's much like in "Them". I LOVED the "Little Drummer Boy" reference in "Christmas". Livia Zita's vocals really add to the ambience. Most fans were apprehensive when they heard that King would be having another vocalist...something he had previously been very much against, since he has always played all the parts in his stories. Not to worry. Livia's voice adds so much to the part she plays as Victoria, and absolutely does more to give life to the character. This isn't cheesy duets, this is King Diamond, and he doesn't disappoint.
This is a must for any true King Diamond fan. It comes in digipack form with a bonus DVD of King telling the story in full makeup. Very creepy and wonderful all at once. It's why they call him King.
M
"Some say it is better to rule in Hell than to serve in Heaven. That is a defeatist attitude. I intend to rule everywhere, not just in Hell"
