All of
Mercyful Fate
's potential was fulfilled on
Don't Break the Oath
, a doomy, gothic collection of post-
Priest
/
Maiden
black metal
preoccupied with Satan and the occult.
Hank Shermann
and
Michael Denner
keep their
progressive rock
tendencies reigned in while still delivering plenty of the
neo-classical
feel that gives the music its atmosphere, and
King Diamond
uses his vocal range to great theatrical effect.
Fate
's sound and attitude were highly influential on later
gothic
bands, especially in Europe, and
consistently encapsulates their appeal. ~ Steve Huey