David MoyaThose Amazing Dark Years
Back in the 1980s, albums like Them, Abigail, Conspiracy, and The Eye (without Mickey Dee) set a standard that few bands have ever matched. These were terrifying, brilliantly crafted concept albums that combined exceptional musicianship, unforgettable storytelling, and an atmosphere that could genuinely send shivers down your spine.
Every song was written with purpose and emotion, and each album flowed as a complete journey rather than just a collection of tracks. Mickey Dee’s drumming was extraordinary—sometimes sounding almost random, with a progressive feel, yet always perfectly controlled and serving the songs. Hal Patino‘s bass locked in flawlessly with Dee’s rhythms, creating one of the strongest rhythm sections in heavy metal.
Then there was the incredible guitar partnership of Pete Blakk and Andy LaRocque, undoubtedly one of the greatest twin-guitar lineups in metal history. And, of course, above them all stood the master himself, King Diamond, whose unmistakable voice and theatrical storytelling brought every nightmare to life.
These albums are pure black magic—musical witchcraft that has captivated generations of metal fans. Their legacy has never faded, and many of us have spent years hoping that one day this legendary lineup would reunite to summon that dark magic once again.
A Dream Becomes Reality
For years, it seemed that dream would never come true. King Diamond’s last full-length studio album, Give Me Your Soul… Please, was released in 2007. Since then, fans have received only a handful of singles. They have kept the flame alive, but they barely satisfy our hunger for the dark magic, haunting atmosphere, and masterful storytelling that only a complete album can deliver.
A few songs are simply not enough. They remind us of what we’ve been missing. Nearly two decades have passed without a new King Diamond album, leaving fans eager for another journey into his dark world.
Then something unexpected happened. A reunion with King himself still seemed unlikely. Instead, we received what may be the next best thing. The musicians behind those legendary classic albums reunited to form Lex Legion. Together, they brought back the chemistry and musicianship that helped define one of heavy metal’s greatest eras.
For fans who grew up worshipping those records, Lex Legion is far more than another supergroup. It feels like a piece of history returning to life and another chance to experience that unmistakable dark magic.
The New Ingredient That Makes the Recipe Work
Every great band needs the right frontman, and this supergroup finally found the missing ingredient in Lex Legion vocalist Nils K. Rue. While he effortlessly handles the soaring, high-pitched vocal register, he wisely avoids trying to imitate King Diamond’s unmistakable falsetto. Instead, he delivers his own powerful interpretation, and that’s something I genuinely appreciate. Rather than living in King’s shadow, Rue gives Lex Legion its own identity.
Going into this debut album, don’t expect the intricate concept albums that these musicians created during their glory days. Instead, what you get is pure, unadulterated 1980s heavy metal. The album balances razor-sharp, neoclassical twin-guitar work with powerful, driving rhythms. It doesn’t try to reinvent the genre or create something revolutionary. Instead, it reminds us why traditional heavy metal became a classic in the first place.
This feels like a group of old friends getting together simply because they love playing heavy metal. There’s no unnecessary complexity or modern trends to chase. Sometimes, less really is more.
The rhythm section is as solid as a dam wall, providing the perfect foundation for Pete Blakk and Andy LaRocque, who deliver exactly what fans expect: memorable riffs, tasteful solos, and superb guitar harmonies from start to finish.
The production is excellent. Everything sounds powerful without losing the organic feel of classic heavy metal. The guitars have a traditional tone with a modern edge, the drums sound punchy and natural, and Hal Patino’s bass sits proudly in the mix instead of disappearing beneath the guitars. I wouldn’t be surprised if Andy LaRocque’s Sonic Train Studios played a major role in achieving such a polished sound.
This is an immensely enjoyable release for lovers of traditional heavy metal. While we continue waiting for the next King Diamond album, Lex Legion delivers something that many fans never expected: a genuine taste of that classic magic. If you’re a fan of those legendary albums, this is a release you simply shouldn’t miss.
