While the story is perhaps a bit contrived, it is beyond reproach because of the excellence with which the music itself is delivered. Remember, this is a sonic masterpiece. Prior to releasing this album, King stated that it sounded perhaps fuller than other records in the current era because it was purposely left uncompressed. Well, so be it! The sonics are delivered with excellent clarity and fullness courtesy of Andy LaRocque's final production under the Los Angered studio name. As to individual components of the record, the bass bears Hal Patino's traditional and classic sound, while Matt Thompson's drumming is killer from the rudimentary all the way to "borrowing" from KD alumnus Mikkey Dee to some parts that he couldn't believe King let him "get away with" (Coven Worldwide Forum commentary from the King).

And the guitars? LaRocque's axe is the sound of King Diamond (the band), plain and simple. Having brought in Mike Wead (also of Mercyful Fate), however, seems to have brought some of that band's classic qualities into the traditional King Diamond sound. In fact, it could be argued that GMYSP sounds more like a MF record. There are those familiar guitar licks, bass patterns, and vocal sounds that recall the King's massive past. However, whereas Dave Mustaine purposefully invoked his sonic past for Megadeth's last record, the musicians here seem to have simply played what felt right and that did all the conjuring for them. So while the story may be thinner than previous releases, overall it's fine. Livia Zita's contributions are more than before, and that, too, is fine. Oh, but what about the voice? All of the King's vocal styles are used to great effect, though the falsetto is given a bit of a rest this time, yielding to more of a mid-range contribution. Check out "The Floating Head" for everything right about Metal. Bottom line: King Diamond rules. Buy. Now.

written by Tony Belcher

Playing time: 54:05