King Diamond Horror Tales Illustrations and graphic design by Marcos Daniel
King Diamond Horror Tales copyright © First Da Capo Press Text Copyright © 2012 By King Diamond All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or othrwise, without the prior writen pemission of the publisher. Library of congress Cataloging in Publication Data Diamond, King. Horror Tales. ISBN-10: 0-306-80970-2 ISBN-13: 978-0-306-80970-5 ML3534.w45 2000 306.4’84--dc21 First Da Capo Press Edittion 2012 Published by Da Capo Press A Member of the Perseus Books Group http://www.dacapopress.com
O DE R EM F R AT O H E PT A R R IN ES S
H
Biography Anton Lavey’s Quote Fatal Portrait Abigail Them Voodoo The Puppet Master Carl Jung’s Quote Discography
08
Heavy Metal
15 Horror
20 34 60 72 98 123 125
Occultism
MERCYFUL FATE
KING DIAMOND
King Diamond Kim Bendix Petersen, June 14, 1956, Copenhagen, Denmark) is a Grammy-Nominated heavy metal musician known for his striking face painted image. As a vocalist, he is known for his use of falsetto, mixed with mid-range vocals in most of his music. As the frontman for both Mercyful Fate and the eponymous King Diamond, his music has had an influence on many bands across a variety of metal sub-genres. Diamond’s first band, with whom he played guitar, was reportedly called Brainstorm. Feeling creatively dissatisfied, Diamond left Brainstorm and began singing with local Danish hard rock band Black Rose. It was during this time in Black Rose that Diamond began experimenting with horror themed theatrics as well as shaping
Heavy Metal
Horror
Occultism
the malevolent quasi-Satanic stage persona that he would become known for in the future. In 1980, he left Black Rose and joined the punk-metal band Brats. It was in Brats that Diamond met the three musicians (Hank Shermann, Michael Denner, Timi Hansen) that would join with Diamond in 1980 and become Mercyful Fate. Because of the group’s stage presence, make-up and occult lyrics, their musical style is somewhat reminiscent of heavy metal, power metal, progressive metal and rock opera. Following the 1984 release of Don’t Break the Oath and the subsequent tour (which saw them play in the U.S. for the first time), Diamond split ways with Mercyful Fate, as a result of frustration over creative differences with Hank Shermann. With him, he took two of his bandmates (Hansen and Denner) to pursue a solo career under his
own name.Mercyful Fate re-united in 1992 (while King Diamond simultaneously continued his solo career), but were disbanded by Diamond in 1999, as King decided to put Mercyful Fate in retirement and continue on with his solo career. In an interview with Metal Israel in 2005, King elaborated on the decision to retire Mercyful Fate, as he claimed that “it’s impossible for me to live off Mercyful Fate... I can still live from King Diamond.” In 2005 King said that while M.F. still has a contract and could record another record, it would have to be done only as a hobby since Fate does not earn enough money to support itself.
With his solo act, KING DIAMOND often uses the lyrics and music to create characters and tell stories in the form of concept albums. Albums meld together as one story (features present already in the Fatal Portrait album), but carry to more intricate levels (with the albums, Abigail, “Them”, and The Eye) to the dramatic story (Conspiracy). Typical of both the Abigail and Conspiracy tours was how King Diamond re-enacted much of the scenarios on stage, using special effects in the show much in the style of metal-musician Alice Cooper, of whom Diamond is a fan. King Diamond albums also often feature dueling guitar solos. On the CD inserts, the performer of each solo is credited, often using a symbol. In 2001, King Diamond worked out a deal with the band Usurper to sing backup vocals
on the song “Necronemesis” in exchange for them shifting their recording schedule around to accommodate the recording of Abigail II: The Revenge. In 2004, King Diamond contributed vocals to “Sweet Dreams”, which was the final track on the album of Dave Grohl’s heavy metal side project Probot. In late 2005, King Diamond appeared on the Roadrunner United - The All-Star Sessions album, contributing vocals to the song “In the Fire”, which featured multiple Roadrunner Records musicians (past and present) working together to create individual songs. King Diamond also guested on the Cradle of Filth song “Devil Woman” in late 2005. In April 2006 King reunited with old friend Mikkey Dee (current Motörhead drummer) at a sold-out gig at Kåren in Gothenburg, Sweden.
In 2001 King referred to Dee as “one of the best [drummers] of all time and that’s something that has bothered us since he left.” King Diamond released his new album, Give Me Your Soul...Please, on June 26, 2007. Following the release in December the band received a Grammy nomination in the “Best Metal Performance” category for the track “Never Ending Hill”. He was forced to cancel an upcoming United States tour due to a herniated disk, causing severe back pain, which puts him in intense pain almost all of the time.”. He attributes the problem to the long stressful hours spent working on the album. ON STAGE, Diamond uses a trademark microphone handle consisting of two femur bones in the shape of a cross. A live trademark was also Melissa, a full human skeleton which Diamond
would sing to. In the mid-1980s Melissa’s skull was stolen after a performance in the Netherlands. It was claimed to have been finally returned in 2006.; however, this was denied by King Diamond himself. Kiss bassist Gene Simmons claims to have sent Diamond a cease-and-desist letter over Diamond’s makeup design, which Diamond complied with.Diamond has changed the design of his makeup often over the years. With Conspiracy, he wore a mesh of black and white line war paint, with some red “blood” made to look like a wound coming out of his forehead. With his album The Puppet Master, he used very little white and mainly had black inverted crosses going up and down his face.
Satanism Despite numerous claims otherwise, Peter H. Gilmore, The High Priest in The Church Of Satan, has confirmed in an interview on the news show “The Hour” that King Diamond is in fact a member of the Church (LaVeyan Satanism is an atheistic cult influenced by Nietzsche and other individualist philosophers, and should not be confused with Theistic Satanism and/ or Devil Worship). During a spring 1984 interview with British heavy metal magazine Kerrang! correspondent Dave Dickson, who, after some introductory remarks and questions about the then-current Mercyful Fate album Don’t Break The Oath, took Diamond to task regarding his Satanic beliefs.[citation needed] Dickson made frequent references to infamous occultist Aleister Crowley, by whom Diamond denied being influenced. Diamond expressed his admiration of Anton Szandor LaVey (founder of The Church of Satan in San Francisco in 1966) in the interview, which has been cited by some as influential in the demise of Mercyful Fate (although Diamond has always denied this). In the same interview he claimed to have cursed Manowar, as Fate had briefly toured as a support act to Manowar in the UK, and there were personality conflicts between the two bands. He adorns himself with inverted crosses, the sigil of Baphomet (from the LaVeyan perspective) and has written lyrics openly hostile to Christianity (as evidenced in “The Oath” with lyrics including “I deny Jesus Christ, The Deceiver, and I abjure the Christian faith holding in contempt the whole of its works”). However, with the albums released under his own name, he has downplayed the overt Satanism in favour of a “horror movie” approach, though he still wears inverted crosses as jewelery and makeup. In an interview from 2006, King Diamond reveals that he does not follow any specific religion, and expresses concern that religion has led so many people to kill and destroy each other. According to himself, he has problems comprehending why religion has caused so much death and destruction, when it is logically impossible to prove the presence or absence of any god. He reveals that he has reached a point in his life where he has completely given up believing in anything religious and that he simply does not know what to answer when asked whether he is a Satanist or not.
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“There is a beast in man that needs to be exercised, not exorcised.” Anton LaVey
15
Fatal Portrait February 17th, 1986 Roadrunner Records
22
In the attic I was searching by the moonlight what would I find. Old and grey from dust I felt it staring back Oh, that book! Yellow pages caught my eyes, so unreal. Through the dust of time, In an ancient rhyme the truth had been sealed. On a broken shelf it would all be revealed it had been there for yearsAnd no one ever knew. Now break the spell and free the girl from the candle of fate.
Look at the flame and say the rhyme. The end is near, no more pain. Ah, you’re free! As the candle melts away the spirit of the candle girl emerges from the flame, she doesn’t seem the same. With a smile on her face she starts to speak.
“Hear my
story:”
She carries a secret ...
...you’ll never know...
...my spirit came to life again...
The spirit of the candle :
“My mother was obsessed by evil jealousy, she didn’t want nobody to even look at Molly. She kept me locked up in this attic ‘till I died. Only 4 years old, my story left untold.” Oh, Molly...Oh, Molly. “Mother was struck by this infallible idea. If she could paint my portrait i would remain immortal and i could hang downstairs above the fireplace. A little girl in lace, not a single trace of crime. Each day and night she worked and autumn turned to spring. For every stroke she painted a little life was ended. At last I felt so weak I could not even speak. But in that fatal portrait my spirit came to life again.” Oh, Molly. That night i made the portrait speak in evil tongue: You’re gonna go beyond too, may pain and death bestow you. She grabbed a book and spoke aloud an ancient rhyme while she burned the portrait in the candle of fate.” Oh, Molly. “I’ve gotta see ma.” She’s wearing white again, but colours always betray. Don’t look into her eyes, there’s an evil darkness inside.You might see her but she is not here. Leave her alone don’t get too near, one touch and you’ll disappear. What a scream you’ll never hear. She carries a secret and where she must go... You’ll never know. Searching but not for a home. A restless soul all on its own. Always dressed in white as she passes on through the night. She carries a secret and where she must go... You’ll never know.
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Welcome my friend, my name is Charon. Please take my hand, i know the secret land. Don’t be afraid... Oh, no. I’m faceless but don’t fear now , I’ll take you safe across the river Styx. Waste no time, soon the night will break away. That boy can wait, there’s only room for one. I am your death, we must leave now, my boat is waiting. On the other shore is the land of the dead.
Dead Family {
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1777
}
When nightfall comes around and the light of day is gone, the dark closes in as the last candle burns out. It’s time to send off your mind on a trip into the land of dreams and mist. Is something wrong, they are lurking in the dark. Heavy breathing but nobody’s there. If that’s what you think you’d better beware. Is something wrong, they are lurking in the dark, watching you. How does it feel to be alone in the dark? How do you know they won’t do any harm? They can see you but you’re... Oh, so blind! Maybe it only appears in your mind.
Is something wrong, they are lurking in the dark, you’ll see.
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Oh, it’s Halloween. Every night to me is Halloween.
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Like an ancient scene, you know just what I mean. Halloween ,you are my pride. Halloween not just a dream.
The moon is full, another perfect day has began. Like a demon’s eye, that devil’s eye. Will we ever die?
Every night will be another evil scene, like in horror dreams I want. I command you to scream. Halloween ,you are my pride. Halloween not just a dream.
Stay away, Molly’s soul keeps returning every night to the attic shrine. Never alone, living dolls out of nowhere crying out: “mommy why.”
The house is forever haunted, nothing you can do. Molly is living there with her dolls and they are alive...wait and see. Stay away, mrs. Jane, Molly’s mother slowly went...insane.
INSANE
INSANE
- Mommy... Mommy...
- I’ll destroy you!
Abigail October 21st, 1987 Roadrunner Records
{ Stigmata are bodily marks, sores, or sensations of pain in locations corresponding
JULY.1777
36
18:9 18:9 18:9
to the crucifixion wounds of Jesus Christ. }
FUNERAL
- We are gathered here tonight to lay to rest Abigail la Fey, whom we now know was first born dead on the seventh day of July, 1777. Abigail must be nailed to her coffin with seven silver spikes,one through each arm, hand, and knee, and let the last of the seven be drawn through her mouth so that she may never arise and cause evil again. Who will be the first? - I, O’Brian of the Black Horsemen...
- That must be it!
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Through the summer rain of 1845 the coach had finally arrived. To the valley where the crossroads meet below and where all darkness seems to grow. People blame it on the Hill... The hill where no one dares to go... The Mansion... Where no one dares to go. The coach had stopped, and from the window you could see seven horsemen in the night. Miriam Natias and Jonathan la Fey saw the magic in their eyes. They were in for a surprise... The darkness would soon be complete. A horseman came forth from the dark... — We know you’ve come to inherit what’s yours... The Mansion.Take our advise and go back on this night. If you refuse 18 will become 9... Oh, no! — Oh, 18 is 9! Jonathan laughed and said. — Get out of my way. I don’t believe a word you say. The seven horsemen disappeared into the night. — Someday you’ll need our help, my friend... I think poor Jonathan was scared... 18 is actually 9... It stuck in his mind...
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Riding up the alley in the rain, no lights to show the way. How could this ever be their home? Through the darkness you could only see a giant shadow that swells to be a house where evil rules at night. And the shadows at the gate, they seemed to be alive. Yeah, the shadows at the gate - Alive. Everything inside was left untouched.
Except for what the rats had got and the dust of time that showed its mark.
Armed with candlelight and open eyes through the dark they fought their way ‘til every room was lit again... And the house began to breathe, it seemed to be alive. Yeah, the house began to breathe, alive. As the candlelight began to fade, And Jonathan said: — Let’s go to bed. The fireplace had ceased to burn... Both were fast asleep before the dawn, dreaming... And they did not know about the shadow... Yeah, the shadow on the wall, it really came alive. Yeah, the shadow on the wall. Sunrise!
The darkness came closer to home on the following night, and Miriam slept like a rock when Jonathan’s face went white... The bedroom was ice cold,but the fire was burning still. The blinding light! The Family Ghost had risen again... The Ghost!
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“Don’t be scared. Don’t be scared now, my friend. I am Count de la Fey. Let me take you to the crypt down below where Abigail rests... Let Miriam sleep. She never would understand. Now come, let us go. It’s time to know... Beware of the slippery stairs. You could easily fall and break your neck! Hand me that torch and I will lead the way to the secret in the dark. Take a look into the vault... The sarcophagus of a child! Abigail has been in here for years and years... stillborn. The spirit of Abigail is inside your wife, and there’s only one way you can stop the rebirth of Evil Itself: You must take her life now!”
Count de LaFey uncovered his cheating wife. Nine months of loving and sharing... Oh, it was a bastard child! How could he have been so blind?! — No bastard baby will inherit what’s mine! Another one of her affairs had left him in despair... So he pushed her down the stairs to diew... — No! - She cried... In 1777, on the 7th Day of July... The Countess broke her neck, and the embryo came out dead. Then he burned his beloved wife, and the embryo he gave a name. — Abigail, you must rest in shame! Rest in shame! Obsessed with a strange idea, he wanted to mummify the girl for the future to find. And he did... So he pushed her down the stairs to die... No! She cried... In 1777, on the 7th Day of July...
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July,7, 1777
Nobody’s inside the church, but the bell is ringing. For no reason, the flowers are dying.
Inside the mansion, the air is unbearable -- a rotten smell. In the dining room, the table is set for three.
— Miriam, come here and see what I’ve found. It’s moving! An empty cradle swaying in the air! I did not bring it in here! Did you?!
— No, no, no!
50
Oh, deadly Omens! Oh, deadly Omens!
Oh, deadly Omens! Oh, deadly Omens!
Oh, deadly Omens! Oh, deadly Omens!
Oh, deadly Omens! Oh, deadly Omens!
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On the very next morning, when the mist was eaten away by the sun, Miriam grew hour by hour, and Jonathan he cried. He knew the ghost had been telling the truth. So this was 9! The pregnancy would not last overnight! Oh, she started singing a lullaby, rocking the cradle again, and then she said: — I’m having your baby my love... But it wasn’t love! She was possessed... And he knew!
DI O 7 7 M A N 7 P
P OS
O
S
POS S E
S E S E
S S E
D
S S E
S S E
POS S E SS ED POSSESSED
D
D
— I will get what is rightfully mine! Speaking with different tongues, Miriam was eaten alive from inside. Again she said: — I’m having your baby my love... But it wasn’t love! She was possessed... Possessed!
Death
— Abigail, I know You’re in control of her brain, Abigail. And I know that you’re the one that’s speaking through her, Abigail. Miriam can you hear me? — I am alive inside your wife. Miriam’s dead, I am her head... — Abigail, don’t You think I know what You’ve done, Abigail ? I’ll get a priest, he will know how to get her soul back. — Oh, Jonathan, this is Miriam. Our time is out. Remember the stairs, it’s the only way... — Abigail, nothing I can do but give in, Abigail. Follow me to the crypt. — Jonathan, I agree... Yes I do. I am alive inside your wife Miriam’s dead, I am her head... Soon I’ll be free!!!
18is918is9 18is9
So, there they stood at the top of the stairs... Miriam in the mood... Jonathan was scared. Gazing into the dark, Jonathan saw this glow....For a second, he turned his back, and she was there like a ghost. She pushed him hard and clean... To the bottom of the stairs. — Now we’re finally alone, Miriam. Abigail is here to stay! The birth of Abigail would soon be realized. The second coming of a devil in disguise. And the moon did not shine... It was darker than ever before. On this sacred night The soul of Miriam was crying out in pain. Remembering the day... Arrival in the rain... The pain of labour was so strong that Miriam died. Her final seeing was a pair of yellow eyes. You can still hear her screaming If you’re walking the stairs in July...
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Riding from beyond, The seven Horsemen would arrive before the dawn. Servants of the Count when Abigail was born the first time. Oh, no! They found her in the sarcophagus.Baby Abigail was eating... Oh, I cannot tell you... — Take her... and bring her to the chapel in the forest. So go now... The ceremony! And the coffin’s waiting The Black Horsemen. That’s the end of another lullaby... Time has come for me to say goodnight...
Them September 13th, 1988 Roadrunner Records
— Yeah, finally we’ll get some company again. The attic room has been locked up for far too long. — Just like the old bitch herself. — She’s on time though. — Why that silly wheelchair? — Oh, she’s pretending as always — She does make a good cup of tea. — Oh, my God! She’s here. Missy, listen to what mother says: Now you be good to Grandma; and remember, she’s been away on a long vacation. That goes for uou too King. And stop playing that thing. Answer the door.
You have been gone for far too long. Is this a dream, are you really back? — Let me help you out of the chair, Grandma’. Let me touch you, let me feel... Ahhh, Grandma’ take a look. What do you think of the house and the silvery moon? We are going to repaint the front door soon. Wait till you see your room up in the attic prepared just like you said. Without a bed. You will find Your rocking chair and the tea pot that Missy found. Let me help you out of the chair... Grandma’. There is someone waiting for You, now come along, Missy and Mother, they are dying to meet you. How strange. She’s spoken no word...
MISSY GRANDMA
— I wonder Grandma’! Are you all right? Grandma’ what was it like to be on that holiday site? — Oh, it could have been worse but with “THEM” by my side. In the twilight “THEY” sang all the old lullabies. — Grandma’ who are “THEY”? — Never mind, your dirty little brat. Let us go inside, something’s on “THEIR” mind. “THEY” are still alive, can You feel “THEIR” eyes? Can you feel “THEIR” eyes? Now that you are stuck with me you better be my friend.
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64
Late that night I awoke from my sleep hearing unknown voices laughing insane. Grandma’ was one. Oh, it’s coming from the room next to mine. It’s Grandma’ room... The invisible guests. As i stood there alone in the dark peeking through the keyhole, couldn’t believe my eyes. I’d never seen anything like it, only Grandma’ was inside the room speaking to no one... The invisible guests. Cups were rising in thin air and then emptied on the floor. Suddenly the door was open and Grandma’ said: — Do come in My little friend. Missy and Mother were sleeping downstairs. If they could see me in Grandmother’s chair. Grandmother said — Look Me deep in the eyes. You will forget what you saw here tonight. I will let you in on the secret of this house. The secret of Amon... That’s what we call this house. Now i want you to go back to sleep, now go back to sleep my dear.
...As i turned out the light, Grandma’ came and knocked at My door. — Wake up King, wake up my dear. I am gonna show you about the house of Amon. It is time for tea, it is time again. Even your other is present. We made her sleep in my rocking chair. At first I felt really scared, but there was no reason to. As i saw the knife sneaking out from Grandmother’s dress. Then it cut a tiny wound in My mother’s little hand. It is time for tea, it is time again. Blood was running into the tea pot, then i heard “THEM” laugh. — A bit of this in a cup of tea, is what it takes to set “THEM” free. You will hear “THEM” telling storiesfrom far beyond this earth. What I saw and what I heard made me want to stay and learn. I really hope this dream will neverend, it’s hard to describe the kind of feeling that went on in My mind. A paradise... Hearing “THEIR” stories and feeling “THEIR” warmth we laughed with tears in our eyes from the first cup of tea to the last drop of blood. Nothing seemed to matter at all anymore. My Mother? She didn’t exist to me. Oh, i felt so heavenly. It is time for tea, it is time again.
65
the last night that we had our tea. That bloody tea which sent us into ecstasy. Yesterday Mother complained, feeling dizzy, all in pain. Mother’s getting weaker, looking paler day by day. As morning came, she could not make it out of bed and Grandma’s spell was getting straight into her head. Not a single word, she didn’t seem to be alive. Getting weaker, looking paler day by day. Then, Missy came in and she led me by the hand. I didn’t want to go. Oh, but I should have known. Mother was barely conscious, why should I care? Just looking forward to the next ordeal, i think I heard my sister begging me to stay. She gave me the phone, so I could call someone for help. I simply let go of her hand, then I cut the wire. Missy was crying as I left them both behind and mother’s getting weaker. Missy shouted at my back:
i was waiting passing time then from the hallway, i saw mother in her nightgown swaying up the stairs, up the stairs, it seemed so unreal. I knew Grandma’ had sent “THEM” again, the invisible friends. A little later in the middle of tea we came close to ecstasy. “THEY” were telling tales from beyond, when Grandma’ rise. She opened the door, and there was Missy seeing mother in Grandmother’s chair, she went into tears. Missy was screaming. — What have You done, what have you done to my Ma? - crying louder now. — We better get rid of her, She’s too young anyway. — It was Grandma’ who spoke. — Bye, bye Missy, be gone forever. The beautiful fireplace in the kitchen will do. I saw Missy struggling in Grandma’ wrinkled hands.
DIE - SHE BROKE AMON - AMON - DIE! “THEY” dropped “THEIR” tea cups. Grandma’ stood. Still forced by invisible hands, Missy went down the stairs as I waved her goodbye. Missy was sobbing away. Will I ever see her again. Bye,bye, bye,bye Missy, don’t be afraid.
KING THEM
MISSY
MISSY GRANDMA
Grandma’s room, down the stairs and out of the house. Once outside, I felt my mind begin to fight a battle for control. With the tea pot broken I kind of realized that “THEIR” power was less here, here on the outside. I fell to my knees in haziness and i looked in through the window to the cellar. Things were moving down there. “THEY” were searching for something and “THEY” really found it. The big axe was flying. Flying out through the cellar door up the stairs to the kitchen... Then i passed out the next thing i remember seeing, was the smoke coming from the chimney. I soon realized the smoke i saw was actually... Oh, no! All there was left of Missy and her dress. Poor little girl... The spell was broken, i really felt the change. As my mind and body became one again. The moon was alive with its silvery eye. Staring right into my evil heart. I went back to see if My Grandma’ was still there waiting for me in the attic... Oh, i hate that bitch.
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that she would be waiting for me in her room. With a sick smile she told me not to be a fool. Her eyes went hard, staring right into my brain, but i convinced her that i was feeling real fine. Oh, i was lying... Seeing the look in her eyes, clearing my mind was important. She believed everything i said, and then she asked me if I would help to bring her outside. Oh, I was lucky... — Let us stay for a while. - She said - Bathing ourselves in the moonlight. So there she was, unprotected by “THEM”. I grabbed her cane, and tore it out of her hand. — No way, you’re not going to escape. Now that I’ve got You... Here you will pay for your deeds. Your sick mind has come to an end now. — Stop it. Nowhere to hide, Grandma’ had died alone in the night and “THEY” were waiting for me. Waiting inside, hoping that i would come back in. But I just ran away into the woods, as far as I could. I saw “THEIR” eyes and then I fainted again, going insane. Dreaming that i was one of “THEM”... I hear “THEIR” voices all the time.
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and so did they. Flying questions from the police. I’m waiting here in an ambulance for Dr. Landau to return and tell me why they’re taking me so far away. — I did what I did and I’m glad i did, ‘cos I could have been the... I could have been the next in line. Nobody found a trace of Missy , I’d be the last to tell them anyway. How could i ever ever explain? Now i hear “THEM” again, singing twilight symphony, twilight... I hear “THEM” again, singing twilight symphony, twilight... Grandma’ was dead with an open neck, blood still running from my open mouth. I knew they would blame it, they would blame it all on me. How could I ever ever explain... I hear “THEM” again, singing twilight symphony, twilight... I hear “THEM” again, singing twilight symphony, twilight... Dr. Landau returned, and I told him the story: — Are You mad or just insane? - I tried anyway — You can take him away now, the boy has lost his mind. — Oh! No, no! I haven’t seen my mother since they took me away, and Dr. Landau wouldn’t tell me, he wouldn’t tell me anything. Oh, i’m back on the outside. Time has caught up with me, and i must leave for the old house. Yes I must leave now... — Grandma’... I’m coming. I’m coming home now. I’m coming home now...
Voodoo February 24th, 1998 Massacre Records
AGAIN AND AGAIN
Sarah Lafayette is sleeping, her husband is awake. This summer’s night is too hot. Feels like his majesty was here. Can you hear the voodoo drums, they’re howling at the moon. Voodoo... Voodoo... Voodoo. 1932, North of Baton Rouge. Louisiana nights are darker than before. Along the Mississippi, that is where it is. The old colonial house, a mansion if you will, White as snow, the mansion still seems to have its glow. And when the moon is full and white you can hear the drums of voodoo echo in the night. In the “LOA” house, misery will strike again. Jean Le Noir, the first to own this house, he was a voodoo priest, a Houngan so they say. The voodoo cemetery, that is where he is. Died at the hand of an evil Bocor’s will. They say... he’s been walking the house ever since that day. And when the moon is full and white you can hear the drums of voodoo echo in the night. In the “LOA” house, misery will strike again. They never should have come. No, no, no. They never should have come to the “LOA” house. They never should have come. No, no, no. They never should have come to the “LOA” house. Seven days ago the Lafayetted moved in. Sarah is with child and David is the man. This is no Abigail, this child will survive. And Grandfather dear, why did they bring him here? White as snow, that is all he sees. Oh, he’s been blind for years. They never should have come. No, no, no. They never should have come to the “LOA” house. They never should have come. No, no, no. They never should have come to the “LOA” house. And when the moon is full and white you can hear the drums of voodoo echo in the night. In the “LOA” house, misery will strike again. And again... And again... And again... And again...
... 75
Friday night, four shadows heading for the dark. Four shadows heading for the past. Four shadows heading for the graves in the wooded maze. Four shadows looking for the place without a trace. Midnight and they’re here, midnight. The old burial ground is part of the estate, hidden by the heavy trees. Where Jean Le Noir sleeps, the shadows move. They’re here to feed the dead. The shadows move. ‘Cause there is life after death, be patient and you will see. There is life after death, be patient and you will see. Oh, it must never end... Never end... No. Midnight and they’re here, midnight.
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Doctor Le Croix, he’s a voodoo sorcerer. Madame Sarita, she’s got the snake in her and Lula Chevalier, she’s the girl that no one ever sees. Salem the servant, he belongs to the estate. The shadows move. They’re here to feed the dead... The shadows move. The Lafayettes are unaware. Their butler Salem, he is here. Voodoo has been his life. Voodoo cuts deep like a knife. The shadows move. They’re here to feed the dead, the shadows move. ‘Cause there is Life after death, be patient and you will see. There is life after death, be patient and you will see. Oh, it must never end... Never end. Midnight and they’re here, midnight. Midnight... Life after death.
Saturday evening. A narrow path runs along the river. from the burial ground you might see itleading to a temple of secrets. Where they meet once a week to dance and feast. Lula is dancing to the voodoo drums. Twisting, turning, round and round. She is ready to receive the LOA. She is ready for the God. This one is Damballah. Voodoo, voodoo, voodoo, voodoo, voodoo, voodoo. Total emptiness inside as Damballah gets ready for her ride. Casting out from Lula’s head ,one of two souls that seems to be dead. Travelling deep in a trance, Lula’s legs are getting weak. The LOA has seized its horse.Lula is not the one that’s speaking now. Lula is not the one that’s lying down. — Drink, drink girl, drink the chicken’s blood. Drink, drink girl, drink and feed the God. lf this is all you think they do, oh, you better think again. ‘Cause there is so much more to voodoo, oh, than meets the eye. Voodoo, voodoo, voodoo,voodoo, voodoo, voodoo. Human hair on waxen dolls, pins through their knees. Pins through their little heads, and through their bellies. Ah, they’re coming to get you, they’re coming for you. Ah, they’re coming to get you, they’re coming for you now. Voodoo, voodoo, voodoo... Voodoo, voodoo, voodoo...
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Sunday noon. In the “Loa” mansion the Lafayettes are meeting. There’s a crisis they must resolve. Twice since they moved into this house. The Voodoo drums have spoken at night. he mansion is a dark and gloomy place, a haunted landscape, a house without grace. The Voodoo burial ground is the key. Get rid of that and they’re free. It must remain a secret, or the plan will never work. It must remain a secret. In comes Salem, he’s 6 feet tall and dark. He is the new found butler of the “Loa’ house. They ask him for advice regarding their plan to destroy the cemetery on their land. It must remain a secret, or the plan will never work. It must remain a secret, we must do what must be done. lf you steal the grave from one who sleeps, he will come for you to set him free. You must not break the chain. — Jean Le Noir’s spirit walks this house at night. Never will he leave, cause this is where he died. Great Wanga will hit you if you do destroy the cemetery of Voodoo. It must remain a secret, or the plan will never work. It must remain a secret. — Superstitious we are not.
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Saturday midnight. At midnight that same night, the Lafayettes were sleeping. At midnight that same night, there is a shadow creeping. Salem is moving without a sound, Salern is moving,moving, moving to the burial ground. So hot and so quiet. Only the leaves are shaking by one of the graves. Doctor Le Croix is waiting. Salem is moving without a sound. Salem is moving, moving, moving to the burial ground. Doctor Le Croix, shaking the hand of Salem.
— My, my, my ,my, my God. Salem tell me the secret. My, my, my ,my, my God, this makes me feel uneasy.
In shock... Le Croix is terrified, this could be the end. Fear turns to hate. Great Wanga will befall the Lafayettes. — Salem, help me, save us... Salem, help me, save us By turning them to dust. So take this money and off you go To Madame Sarita’s Boutique of Voodoo. A snake curse and a little ‘Goofer Dust’. You Salem will be the link between them and us. This could be an easy way to turn the Lafayettes to dead. My, my, my ,my, my God Two hours later, Salem leaves Madame Sarita, Salem is looking scary. My, my, my ,my, my God, now he’s heading for the cemetery. Kneeling in front of one of the graves. A handful of soil and Salem is on his way. He must leave a copper penny as payment for the soil and to protect himself from all the spirits that could come and dig themselves. lnto his head... Dead... Dead... Dead... Salem is here by the house, in the dark, there is a shadow digging. The snake in the bottle, is buried and it’s ready. Salem is moving without a sound. Everyone’s sleeping, but me ‘cause l don’t need it... No.
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Monday morning. The sun has risen just above the trees. The birds are singing, it’s just like a dream. What a perfect morning it could have been. Salem’s in the kitchen, and that’s a sin. Eggs for three and a little teamixed with the graveyard dirt from yesterday. Anybody eating Salem’s “A la carte” today. Should be taken ill and.waste away. Salem thinking to himself: — You used to be so beautiful, but now you’re gonna die. You used to be so beautiful, but now you’re gonna die. Die, both of you are gonna die. Die, die, both of you are gonna die, die... Die! Salem’s walking up the stairs to the second floor with silver tray in hand. knocking at the door. You used to be so beautiful, but now you’re gonna die. Die, both of you... Are gonna die. In a fever, sick as Hell David’s got a snake bite and all is well. Salem thinking to himself: — You used to be so beautiful, but now you’re gonna die. You used to be so beautiful, but now you’re gonna die. Die, both of you are gonna die. Die, die, both of you are gonna die,die! The problem is that Sarah’s morning sick again. That pregnant woman, always something wrong. You used to be so beautiful, but now you’re gonna die. You used to be so beautiful, but now you’re gonna die. Die... Sarah die, Sarah die. Die, die... Sarah die.
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Where... ... Sarah Sleeps.
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A DN E S
Monday evening. Evening, the sun is setting. Silence is all you hear.David getting really sick, he is sweating like a pig. The fever’s got him now. And Sarah’s father dear, the morning snack has put him on his back. He should have stayed in bed... oh, why didn’t he? The sun is setting, silence is all you hear. — Salem, what’s going on? — Let me tell you a story Madame, a secret about your land. The reason for all this madness. Let me tell you a story Madame, the burial ground on your land is a secret voodoo stand. If you ever destroy this sacred place, legend says that you will die and never find your rest. I’m telling the truth. Oh, yes l am. If the living can’t feed the dead, then the dead will come for you. — You better hold your tongue now Salem, ‘Cause l don’t believe in ghosts. There is only one thing left to do now and that is sending of death will soon be here, everything should be ready by now for “Sending Of Dead”. Place the image of Saint Expedit upside down and around, I hear Doctor Le Croix speaking.
SPEAK
— Let the ritual begin. Almighty God, father of mine, come for Sarah Lafayette, that she may be “Disappeared’, forever lost. Saint Expedit, you are a saint and I’m a sinner, l send you to find Sarah Lafayette. Oh, rid me of her head and rid me of her soul. Rid me of all her thoughts, rid me of her memory. For this curse to work, Baron Samedi, Samedi, Samedi, send your blessing, so Sarah may be gone. As if he was sent from the sky, Baron Samedi creeps inside, the Doctor’s body speaking to Salem. — You must bring me a sacrifice. You must come back before midnight. Kneel before my cross. Salem is there. He takes a handful of soil from each grave of the dead he wants to send into Sarah. Now quick quick run back to the house. The soil must lie where Sarah sleeps.
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Monday night. Tuesday morning, master bedroom. Salem’s standing in the dark watching Sarah’s sleeping body. Someone is in her bed twisting, turning in his fever. — David will not even see her. l am invisible, I am the one to bring you down. I open up my hand, the “Goofer Dust” is falling. It’s now on Sarah’s hand. You can almost see the dead, as they enter Sarah’s head. Then deep into her stomach, l wonder how the baby feels. Violently she’s sitting up screams of pain, l know she’s hurting. l only see the white in her eyes. Sarah speaks in unknown tongue, then she spits a little blood. Time has come, I must be gone. In comes Grandpa, what is he doing? l thought l had him not moving. But the dead in Sarah’s head, will — Go back to sleep my dear. lt’s just another nightmare. Those God damn voodoo drums... l will stay in here tonight, and keep an open eye. So you can sleep again. Sarah sleep... Sarah sleep...
EVIL GOOD
Tuesday morning. At the light of dawn on a day without sunshine ,Salem had vanished, Gone. Would Sarah, would she survive? Grandpa was panicking. — Father Malone, The Exorcist... Father Malone, The Exorcist. Sarah’s voice had changed from female to Male and that was wrong. It was as if Sarah had gone. Grandpa remembered his friend. Father Malone was the name. — Put me through to New Orleans, The Abbey of the Holy Saints. Father Malone please, it’s urgent. You got to, you got to, you got to put me through. It only took a minute or two, before the Father he understood. — Listen here my friend, do not despair l will be there this afternoon but beware of the Daytime Moon. Father Malone, The Exorcist... Father Malone, he is here. — Holy Cross and Bible. Holy Water for the soul and so the house I bless, but David he’s go to Go, call for an ambulance before the others know. Then he went back to Sarah’s room.
BS SF
Baron
Lafayette
Tuesday early morning. — Holy Lord, Almighty Father. Everlasting God and father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Who sent your only begotten son into the world to crush that lion, strike terror Lord, into the Beast. Let your mighty hand cast him out of your servant Sarah Lafayette, so he may no longer hold captive this prisoner. I cast you out, you unclean spirit. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, It is he who commands you. It is God himself who commands you. By this sign of the Holy Cross, give way to Christ. The power of Christ compels you. The power of Christ compels you. The power... The power...
The Power Of Christ Compels You
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Tuesday evening. One single hour, is like a working day. Father Malone is getting tired. Darkness has come again. The Demons seem to be resting. Sarah is looking just like Hell, There ain’t much left of her to save now. Meanwhile in Salem’s quarters there’s a shadow that moves into a room full of secrets of life. lnto a room only few have survived. There is a cross upon the wall, The cross of Baron Samedi. The shadow is taking the cross away. The shadow is Lula, the girl that no one ever sees. — l see her shadow with that cross of mine. l see her shadow slipping into the night. The cross of Baron Samedi will set us free. The cross of Baron Samedi, just wait and see. The cross of Baron Samedi is full of nails.
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The cross of Baron Sarmedi could split your head. Take it to Sarah... Take it to Sarah... Sarah. Darkness. She’s up again. Sarah is standing in front of Father Malone, sleeping... The Father’s on a chair. — Father, I’am about to sin. Then one to the Father’s head. The cross is coming down so hard. Screaming, bleeding, Malone goes down. Again and... again and... his blood is all around. — Stop it Sarah, stop. l don’t know why, but Sarah dropped the cross. Two hours later everyone was here. Police and ambulance, wiping up the tears. Samedi... Samedi... Samedi.
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R.I.P. 1932
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My Name is Salem
i am alive.
Tuesday night-Monday morning. I heard a policeman say to Grandpa: — There once was a Salem, the caretaker of the “LOA” house, but he died years ago. As a matter of fact, he’s buried right here on your land. lf they only knew...
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...
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The “LOA” house and the old voodoo burial ground are still standing in all their glory. The Lafayettes left the hospital and Louisiana and went to... l don’t care. Malone survived. He’s a scared old man now. By the way, my name is Salem. You cannot say that everybody’s happy, but you can say that everybody is now safe from each other. At least l thought so, until a few days ago when I heard of some mother by the name of Sarah Lafayette, who’s newborn baby was speaking in the strangest tongue Backwards. A miracle? Some expert haduttered the word...
The Puppet Master October 21st, 1987 Roadrunner Records
Midnight... I see the snow that’s falling. Midnight... Still hanging on this wall. I’m thinking back in time to when there was still a life free of misery. Oh... But it was never to be. Midnight... I see the snow that’s falling. Midnight... And still you’re haunting me. I’m thinking back in time to the cellar in the darkest night. All the misery, all... The blood I had to see. Midnight... Midnight... Midnight... Midnight... They’re ready for the show. Now the blood must flow, yhey’re waiting above. Oh, Noooo!
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“Let the show begin.”
Night time in Budapest. So many people are waiting in line. Darkness without a glow, what a night to be watching a Christmas show, what a magical mystery feeling. Dancing at the end of their silvery strings almost human in size. Like children with plague in their flesh, these Puppets are... Oh! So grotesque. Night time in Budapest, the Puppet Theater is so dark inside. Gas lamps light the stage We’re watching as the curtain begins to rise. What a magical mystery feeling. Dancing at the end of their silvery strings almost human in size. Like children with plague in their flesh. These Puppets are so grotesque. — Sssssshhhh...here come the Puppets. There is 1... 2... I see 3 Puppets waiting in the wing. Then they start to walk in line and suddenly they’re all on the stage. I see the Puppet Master high above on the walkway. He pulls one string and up goes a leg... Down goes a head. He pulls one more and he lets them all go! No strings, none of them fall, no strings at all...I take a look at the little drummer boy, up on the stage... Oh, no! I think he looked at me... ME, is he alive? I get a little scared... As he starts to play his drum, on the skin of his hand, I see a little cut... Blood. Night time in Budapest. So many things here are not what they seem, but we love them all. What a night to remember forevermore, what a magical mystery feeling. Dancing at the end of their silvery strings almost human in size, like children with plague in their flesh. These Puppets are so grotesque. The show has come to an end. The Master himself is on the stage with his children, the curtain must fall and then the Puppets they are... Gone.
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I N
L
I N E
In the darkness, after the show outside the Theater, the air is damp and cold. All the people heading for home. They don’t believe, that what they saw was magic. Oh... It was Magic I know. This night was full of it, I never saw the undertow... No. Never saw the EVIL, never saw the EVIL. I never saw the EVIL down below. I will never forget that night. I saw the magic in your eyes. We will never forget that night. We saw the magic in each other’s eyes. In the darkness, after the show outside the Theater, the air is damp and cold. All the people... They are gone. Just you and me, and we believe in magic. Oh... It was Magic I know.
Talking the night away, the things we like are all the same. Wanna get to know her, wanna get to know her. I gotta get to know her deep down inside. Suddenly I feel so cold... It feels as if a Ghost is next to me. Cold breath in my ear, as it whispers: “Kiss her now”.Oh... It was Magic I know. That kiss one year ago, a magic seal of our eternal love. Tonight she went to the theater alone but she never came home and I gotta find her now. “I will never forget that night, I saw the magic in your eyes. We will never forget that night we saw the magic in each other’s eyes. I will never forget that night, I saw the magic in your eyes. We will never forget that night,we saw the magic in each other’s eyes.”
The shadows are thick and Old. I’m searching the dark for my love. Behind the Theater of Puppet Shows I find the stairs to the Cellar below. Hiding where the shadows rule a door opens below. The Moon is high above 300 pounds of flesh, that woman I know. Oh, it’s the Puppet Master’s wife. She pulls a cart behind her. Oh, Emerencia, where are you going with that knife? Time to kill, it’s time for her nightly thrill. Oh, Emerencia, where are you going with that knife? Deep in the night through the narrowest streets, I follow her every step. She is searching for innocent victims. Oh, Emerencia... In an alley, a homeless is sleeping. Approaching without a sound... And then... Oh, no! How strange it is... To see.. A life that slips away. How strange it is... In Darkness blood is black, not red. The knife is still deep in his chest. Gotta keep the Blood in its nest. She wraps him in the sack she brought. She better leave before she gets caught. Through the streets dark and old. Through the streets, no one must know. Only the Moon and I and none of us will ever tell. She pulls the body off the cart back at the Theater, down into the dark. Oh, Emerencia, I wonder why you left the door ajar. Deep in the night through the narrowest hallways I follow her every step. There’s a light from a doorway ahead of us. Where did she go, where did she go? Oh, no! What I see is a horror show... Then the blow...
I open my eyes. I can barely see, I got a feeling inside. No one’s here but me, no one’s here but me... Ohhh! I’m stone cold. I must be lying on a floor. My hands are tied to the wall... An iron chain, I can’t move at all. Oh... I remember, I must be in the Cellar. My eyes are sucking on the dark to lighten the gloom. My eyes are no more blind, I can see what’s in this room. Full of skeletons, dressed in human skin... They’re sitting on their shelves, a cellar full of sin. They’re made from humans. So many Puppets here, there are eyes everywhere. There are eyes I recognize. Oh no, it’s the eyes of my love... The eyes of my love. Oh, Victoria! Nooooo! My hands are tied to the wall.. An iron chain, I can’t move at all. Oh... I remember. Full of skeletons, dressed in human skin. They’re sitting on their shelves, a cellar full of sin... I open my eyes... I can barely see a thing. All the tears in my eyes, someone better say it’s a dream. Blue eyes, blue eyes, blue eyes. I recognize blue eyes in the night. They see nothing, and yet they’re so alive.Blue eyes, they’re so alive. All the tears in my eyes, someone better say it’s a dream. Blue eyes in the night. They see nothing, and yet they’re so alive. Yet they’re so alive: yet they’re so alive.
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13
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15
As I look into the eyes of Victoria, enter the Puppet Master and his wife. I can’t speak... I’m in shock... Human skulls, ancient books, a strange symbol on the wall, black candles burning low. In the gloomy light, I see an altar in white. Oh, what is it for? It must be a Ritual. In glass jars, up on shelves, I see liquid dark as Hell, there’s one for every Puppet. I hear the Master’s voice, magic words from ancient times. I’m feeling strange inside. Oh... As if something has taken my mind. I hear the Master’s voice, magic words from ancient times. I’m feeling strange inside. Oh... as if something has taken my mind. In panic, I kick the shelf with all the jars. One of them falls from high above to the floor. RED!! Oh, so Red... it’s BLOOD.
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— How dare you disturb my work? Demon skull, red as Blood. It’s in the symbol on the wall, there’s something deadly wrong. I feel a sting in my eyes, as they’re given eternal life. All because of the Blood on the floor, interrupted ritual. I hear the Master’s voice, magic words from ancient times. I’m feeling strange inside. Oh... As if something has taken my mind. He lures away my soul, from its shelter and into the cold. To him my soul is gold. Trading souls with this Demon is something he knows as well as Hell. Magic life... Is his return.Pain... In my skin, sin... I feel some kind of Magic... Inside.
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Why am I strapped to this hospital bed? — First your eyes, then your skin. We will make you feel born again. No more me, my friend. A shiny scalpel is in the Master’s hand. His wife has got the jars for Blood, she keeps one near. I fear for my life. No more Me. I fear there will be no more Me at all. Is this goodbye sweet life... Ahhhhh... Scalpel cuts, eyelids drop into a jar. I’m crying Blood. Fingers pull my eyeballs out... Scissors snap... I bleed a lot. They set my eyes into this Puppet’s head and still my eyes can see. I’m looking back at myself and what I see is no more Me at all. I have no eyes. My veins... Feel.. Like worms. Drying in the sun, this takes too long. Stripping skin from all my bones. Pain too strong, my senses they go numb. All of my blood is now in little jars. I should be dead by now, but I am still, I am still alive inside my eyes. And I see Emerencia throw my carcass in the trash. Sitting in the cellar, watching all the others. It was only yesterday, needles in my skin. THEY turned my last remains into this Puppet thing. Blood to walk, blood to see, Blood to walk again and Blood to be. I can see, but I cannot move at all. Yet I have feelings, I know it’s very strange. Blood to walk, blood to see, Blood to walk again and Blood to be. I’m on my shelf. Eternal eyes, they never sleep. There is no mistake that is my beloved sitting on her shelf... Alone and so dead. There’s a light outside the door. Mommy and Daddy are back for more... — Let’s play. — Hello my children... In blood I will teach you.
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They take Victoria down from her shelf. THEY sit her on the floor and me in front of her. Blood to walk, blood to see, blood to walk again and blood to be. There are strings attached to our heads. There are strings in arms and legs. The Puppet Master”s hands. Oh, they keep us straight Pressing the needle in... I feel the sting, it’s Emerencia injecting blood into the both of us... It’s hot. I think I see her move. There’s a tingle in our skin, I can’t believe that she can, she again... There is no mistake, that is my beloved. I have missed you so... Oh, no! It’s like a horror show. Without a word we know as we communicate with our eyes, deep inside. We wonder why, why our minds are now in our eyes. We can move without any strings. — They’re alive, that’s enough for today. For 13 days, we have trained and trained. We’re learning to walk again, we’re learning to stretch our skin. Every time THEY bring us back to life. Little jars come down from the shelves, every time we feel the sting, every time we feel the blood going in. Our eyes are now our minds, our souls are in our magical skin. The blood THEY use must come from our own living just an hour, then we fade again. In the Darkness we live our lives, In the dark we die again. In the Darkness we live our lives, in the dark we die and die and die again. Darkness... Darkness.
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Every night, Victoria and I, we spend what’s left of the blood in our systems sitting on opposite shelves Talking with our eyes, trying to remember. It is all that we’ve got. Our eyes are now our minds, our Souls are in our magical skin. We’re living through our memories and it’s worth it... In the Darkness we live our lives, in the dark we die again. In the Darkness we live our lives, in the dark we die and die and die again. Darkness... Darkness. The Puppet Master is hear again. — Tonight you will dance for me Puppet Girl. Tonight... no strings attached. — But I can’t, never did I dance. Oh, I don’t have a chance. — Dance. — I take a step. Oh, I try my best. I stumble into the shelves with all the jars. Six... Six of them coming down. Broken glass and Puppet life is on the floor. In the darkness we live out lives. — Send her far away, far away from here, to the other theater. Tomorrow morning she must be gone. Send her to Berlin. Send that puppet to Berlin.
I am sitting in the Dark, I’m with my Love. We are looking into each other’s eyes. I know if they take her away, there is no life. Take her away and I die.
— Tell me this is not goodbye. Do you remember the Butterfly, it made me cry. — I know... But we dried it’s wings so it could fly again. I wonder if this is the end, for you and I. I know we’ve got to say goodbye. I know that I would change my life.. for you. I would die for you. — I will always remember the things we used to do. All the memories I keep in here, just for me and you, with your image in my eyes. I take you with me when it’s time to go. I swear... I swear I’ll find you. I’ll keep on searching, searching till the end of time. — And if I can’t survive without you by my side then wait for me, wait for me. Wait on the other side... I’ll be there. — I can barely see you anymore. You must remember . — I Love you. — I Love you too. — I can’t see you anymore. Goodbye my love. Come, they told me, a newborn King to see. Our finest gifts we bring To lay before the King... Oh, when we come. It’s Christmas again... it will never be the same. It’s Christmas again, I know. here’s only sadness in my soul. It’s Christmas again... It’ll never be the same. And as the snow is falling from the sky, all I wanna do is cry. I got to get away from here. I gotta get away... By tomorrow, I will be gone. By tomorrow, I’ll see the sun again, but tonight I am The Little Drummer boy. Tonight I am the one who will destroy the secrets never told before of those who lost their souls. There are sad things in the Darkness. There are sad things all around us. It’s Christmas again... It will never be the same. It’s Christmas again, I know. There’s only sadness in my soul. It’s Christmas again... It’ll never be the same. I’m falling on my face, drum breaking on the stage. Oh, my God it’s such a big disgrace. It’s Christmas again... It will never be the same. It’s Christmas again, I know. There’s only sadness in my soul.
Same old wall, still hanging tall. Same old nail through my throat. Eighteen years came along and this time I never, I never saw my Love. I’m going insane. They sold me to this little shop where I remain. Living Dead... I’m feeling like a living dead. Two blue eyes in an empty head. Dead, dead, dead... Eighteen years came along and this time I never, I never saw my love. This life is nothingness. Life on a wall, time to be called back... To the beyond. There’s a rumour going around and around, they say The Puppet Master is gonna build another theater in London Town for kids run by his son and daughter. It’s gonna be a bloody mess. Living Dead... I’m feeling like a Living Dead, living Dead. Living forever on the same old wall, forever with that nail going through my throat. All the children, who see me in this shop they are scared of me, they say I’m looking sick. My eyes follow them. Never to be sold again. Life is never fair... Life is air. — Will I ever see his eyes again. Will I ever see him again. Where is she now... — Where is he now...
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“As far as we can discern, the sole purpose of human existence is to kindle a light in the darkness of mere being.� Carl Jung
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This project is based on the following albums...
Fatal Portrait 1986
King Diamond Vocals, Guitars on “Voices from the Past” Mikkey Dee Drums Timi “Grabber” Hansen Bass Michael Denner Guitars (lead, all rhythm) Andy LaRocque Guitars (lead) Recorded and Mixed at ‘’Sound Track Studio’’, Copenhagen, July - August 1985. Chart position in Sweden: #33 1. The Candle 2. The Jonah 3. The Portrait 4. Dressed in White 5. Charon 6. Lurking in the Dark 7. Halloween 8. Voices from the Past 9. Haunted The only King Diamond album not to be entirely concept. Tracks 1 through 4 tell the “Fatal Portrait” story and conclude with track 9. The remaining tracks are stand alone compositions.
Abigail 1987
Andy LaRocque Guitars (all rhythm), Guitars (lead) Timi “Grabber” Hansen Bass King Diamond Vocals Mikkey Dee Drums Michael Denner Guitars (lead) Recorded and Mixed at ‘’Sound Track Studio’’, Copenhagen, December 1986 February 1987. Chart positions: #39 (Sweden) #123 (USA) 1. Funeral 2. Arrival 3. A Mansion in Darkness 4. The Family Ghost 5. The 7th Day of July 1777 6. Omens 7. The Possession 8. Abigail 9. Black Horsemen Re-issued by Roadrunner in 2003 as a 2-CD set along with “Fatal Portrait” as part of the Two From the Vaults series. The “25th Anniversary of Roadrunner” edition released in 2005 included the remastered version of the album and a bonus DVD with a live gig from 1987: 1. Funeral 2. Arrival 3. Come to the Sabbath 4. The Portrait 5. The Family Ghost 6. The 7th Day of July 1777 7. Halloween A video for ‘’The Family Ghost’’ was also made. Though initially planned as a stand-alone concept album, in 2002 King Diamond released “Abigail II: The Revenge” which takes up the story some 18 years later.
“Them” 1988
King Diamond Andy LaRocque Pete Blakk Hal Patino Mikkey Dee
Vocals Guitars (lead) Guitars (lead) Bass Drums
Recorded and mixed at ‘’M.M.C. Studio’’, Copenhagen, DK. Chart positions: #38 (Sweden) #89 (USA) 1. Out From the Asylum 2. Welcome Home 3. The Invisible Guests 4. Tea 5. Mother’s Getting Weaker 6. Bye, Bye Missy 7. A Broken Spell 8. The Accusation Chair 9. “Them” 10. Twilight Symphony 11. Coming Home 12. Phone Call A video for ‘’Welcome Home’’ was made. Some vinyl editions omit the last track, “Phone Call”. 1997 remaster includes two bonus tracks: 13. The Invisible Guests (rehearsal) (5:19) 14. Bye, Bye Missy (rehearsal) (4:48) These tracks are instrumental versions from rehearsals prior to the recording of the album and feature King and Andy on guitar, Mikkey on drums and Timi Hansen on bass. Hansen was still part of the band during pre-production and actually taught Hal Patino the bass lines. Forms one story arc with the next album, “Conspiracy”. Re-issued by Roadrunner in 2004 as a 2-CD set along with “Conspiracy” as part of the Two From the Vaults series.
Voodoo 1998
King Diamond Vocals, Harpsichord, Organ, Keyboards John Luke Hebert Drums Chris Estes Bass, Guitars (acoustic), Keyboards Herb Simonsen Guitars Andy LaRocque Guitars, Keyboards Mastered at Nomad Recording Studio. Recorded at Norman Recordings Studio (Dallas, Texas). Additional recordings made at Los Angered Recording (Gotheburg, Sweden). Chart positions: - Sweden: 55 1. Louisiana Darkness 2. “LOA” House 3. Life After Death 4. Voodoo 5. A Secret 6. Salem 7. One Down Two to Go 8. Sending of Dead 9. Sarah’s Night 10. The Exorcist 11. Unclean Spirits 12. Cross of Baron Samedi 13. If They Only Knew 14. Aftermath There is a hidden track (1:50) after “Aftermath”.
The Puppet Master 2003
King Diamond Livia Zita Matt Thompson Hal Patino Mike Wead Andy LaRocque
Vocals, Keyboards Vocals (backing) Drums Bass Guitars Guitars, Keyboards
Mixed at ‘’King’s House’’.Mastered at “Nomad Recording Studios”. Recorded at: “Los Angered Recording”, Gothenburg, Sweden “Nomad Recording Studios”, Dallas, TX, USA, “Solnasound Recording”, Sweden and “King’s House”, Texas. Chart positions: Sweden: 24 1. Midnight 2. The Puppet Master 3. Magic 4. Emerencia 5. Blue Eyes 6. The Ritual 7. No More Me 8. Blood to Walk 9. Darkness 10. So Sad 11. Christmas 12. Living Dead Limited digipack version comes with a DVD which features King Diamond telling the story of The Puppet Master.
These following albums complete King Diamond’s discography.
...and the insanity goes on...
Recorded and mixed at M.M.C. Studio, Copenhagen, Denmark. A video was made for “Sleepless Nights”. Chart positions: #41 (Sweden) #111 (USA) 1997 remaster includes 2 bonus tracks : 11. At the Graves (alternate mix) (7:20) 12. Cremation (live show mix) (4:12) Continues (and concludes) the story started on “Them”. Re-issued by Roadrunner in 2004 as a 2-CD set along with “Them” as part of the Two From the Vaults series.
Recorded and Mixed at ‘’Sweet Silence Studio’’, Copenhagen, June - August 1990. Chart positions: USA: 179
Mastered at ‘’Future Disc’’. Recorded and Mixed at ‘’The Dallas Sound Lab’’ September - October 1994. This album was released in Europe through Massacre Records. The songs on the album were supposed to be released in 1991. Re-released 2011 in digipack format with remastered sound by Andy LaRoque.
Mastered at ‘’Masterdisk’’. Recorded & Mixed at ‘’The Dallas Sound Lab’’ in Dallas, Texas during March, April, and May of 1996.Released on tape by Morbid Noizz Productions in 1996. Reissued on CD in 2009 and LP in 2010. These editions are remastered by Andy LaRoque and have new artwork.
Produced by King Diamond and Kol Marshall. Engineered by Kol Marshall. 2nd Engineer: J.T. Longoria Mixed by King Diamond and Kol Marshall. Recorded, Mixed and Mastered at ‘’Nomad Recording Studio’’, Carrollton, Dallas, Texas. This album is a concept album of King’s opinion of “what really” happened to Jesus Christ. Chart positions: #60 (Sweden) Also released as a 12” picture LP limited to 1000 copies.
Recorded, Mixed and Mastered at ‘’Nomad Recording Studio’’ Dallas, TX, USA during June - September 2001. This is the sequel to Abigail. Chart positions: Sweden: 42 Finland: 24
Produced by Andy LaRocque, King Diamond, and J.T. Longoria. Recorded at Los Angered Recording, Gothenburg – Sweden, Nomad Recording Studios, Dallas, TX. – USA, Solnasound Recording, Sweden. Mixed at King’s House by Andy LaRocque and King Diamond.