KING DIAMOND - "Them" LP (Black Vinyl)

“Them” is yet another undisputed heavy metal classic from King Diamond. It has a slightly different identity from the rest of his classic run of albums (Fatal Portrait to “The Eye”) in the sense that it does offer up a lot of irregular compositions and is more dedicated to storytelling than any of the other releases. The two previous records with Denner and Hansen favor faster paced songs and are often more in the vein of Mercyful Fate, while the two after “Them” are more streamlined and accessible, with more polished production and musicianship that is at the very least more ambitious if not more technically proficient. To me, this album is the most unique offering from early King Diamond, and the engaging concept will always make it a favorite of mine, even if I reluctantly pick Abigail as the apex overall. But that’s to take nothing away from “Them” as it’s a masterpiece in its own right