MERCYFUL FATE — The Bell Witch (review)

MERCYFUL FATE — The Bell Witch album cover EP · 1994 · Heavy Metal Buy this album from MMA partners
3.5/5 ·
UMUR
The Bell Witch is an EP release by Danish heavy metal act Mercyful Fate. The EP was released in June 1994 through Metal Blade Records. On the cover it says "Limited Edition: Extra long EP featuring live tracks". That description holds very true as the EP contains six tracks and a full playing time of 28:56 minutes.

Out of the six tracks on the EP, The Bell Witch and Is That You, Melissa are taken directly off Mercyful Fate´s comeback album In the Shadows (1993). Both are high quality compositions with the usual occult/ supernatural touch, melodic guitar soloing in spades and King Diamond´s distinct high pitched vocal style in front. In addition to the two studio tracks the EP contains four live tracks and this is probably where most fans will sharpen their ears. Mercyful Fate has yet to release a live album, so this is one of the rare occasions where you´ll be able to hear Mercyful Fate live on an official release. We´re treated to the tracks: Curse of the Pharaohs, Egypt, Come to the Sabbath and Black Funeral. Good choices if you ask me. The songs are performed with a raw energy that leaves no doubt that Mercyful Fate were back with a vengeance on this comeback tour. King Diamond´s vocal delivery is most definitely live and not messed with afterwards in a studio to provide polish. Allthough I enjoy the authenticity of this move, there are places where his voice breaks and the pitch is questionable. I wouldn´t call it a perfect performance but it´s not a problem either.

The Bell Witch is overall a very enjoyable release and as mentioned a rare opportunity to hear recorded live tracks by Mercyful Fate. The fact that two out of six tracks are already available in the same form on another release makes me take away a half star though and I think a 3.5 star rating is warranted.
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