Danish heavy metal band formed in Copenhagen in 1981. Long-running lineup centered on King Diamond (vocals) and Hank Shermann (guitar). Distinguished by King Diamond's operatic falsetto, occult lyrical themes, and complex twin-guitar arrangements. Foundational influence on black metal (cited as an inspiration by Mayhem, Emperor, Watain, and many others).
Five studio albums during their two major runs: Melissa (1983) and Don't Break the Oath (1984) initially, then In the Shadows (1993), Time (1994), Into the Unknown (1996), Dead Again (1998), and 9 (1999). Reformed in 2020; a new studio album has been long-promised.
