King Diamond – Fatal Portrait (1986) [Full Album | Heavy Metal]

Описание: Band: King Diamond
Album: Fatal Portrait
Type: Full-length
Year: 1986
Country: Denmark
Genre: Heavy Metal
Label: Roadrunner Records
Note: Debut solo album after the breakup of Mercyful Fate — blends theatrical vocals, horror-themed lyrics and traditional heavy metal instrumentation, laying the foundation for King Diamond’s signature style.

LINEUP:
King Diamond: Vocals, Lyrics, Songwriting, Guitars (track 8)
Mikkey Dee: Drums
Michael Denner: Songwriting (tracks 5, 7, 9), Guitars (lead, rhythm)
Andy La Rocque: Guitars (lead)
Timi Hansen (R.I.P. 2019): Bass

TRACKLIST:
00:00:00 1. The Candle – 06:40
00:06:41 2. The Jonah – 05:16
00:11:56 3. The Portrait – 05:08
00:17:04 4. Dressed in White – 03:09
00:20:12 5. Charon – 04:16
00:24:29 6. Lurking in the Dark – 03:34
00:28:04 7. Halloween – 04:14
00:32:17 8. Voices from the Past (instrumental) – 01:31
00:33:49 9. Haunted – 03:54

Released in March 1986, Fatal Portrait introduced King Diamond’s unique mix of haunting tales and classic heavy metal — dramatic vocals, sharp riffs and chilling storytelling. From the opening “The Candle” to the eerie atmosphere of “Charon” and “Halloween,” the album establishes a mood of darkness and suspense, blending horror-inspired lyricism with melodic and sometimes aggressive instrumentation. The closing track “Haunted” leaves a lasting impression with emotional weight and haunting melodies.

Though not a full concept album, the first four songs plus “Haunted” weave a ghost-story narrative about spirit, betrayal and horror, while the remaining tracks offer standalone tales, each with its own atmosphere. This combination of narrative and standalone compositions makes Fatal Portrait a versatile but cohesive record — horror metal meets traditional heavy riffs, delivering both melody and intensity.

For fans of old-school heavy metal, horror-themed lyrics and theatrical vocal delivery, Fatal Portrait remains an essential classic. Its atmosphere, songwriting and raw energy still resonate decades after its release — a landmark debut that defined King Diamond’s solo career and influenced generations of metal artists.