Mercyful Fate

Danish heavy metal band

Mercyful Fate is a Danish heavy metal band that was formed in Copenhagen in 1981. The band is recognized for their significant influence on the development of black metal and for their unique blend of heavy metal with progressive elements, melodic guitar work, and high-pitched vocals provided by their iconic frontman, King Diamond. Mercyful Fate gained a cult following with the release of their self-titled EP in 1982 and their first full-length album, "Melissa," in 1983. The band's second album, "Don't Break the Oath," released in 1984, further cemented their status within the metal community and is often cited as a classic in the genre.