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CD: Mercyful Fate - Melissa	Released: 1983
Reviewed By: Saad Aftab (Saad)	Rating: (5/5)

Tracklist:
1.Evil
2.Curse Of The Pharaons
3.Into The Coven
4.At The Sound Of The Demon Bell
5.Black Funeral
6.Satan's Fall
7.Innocent Lovers...It's A Lie
8.Melissa

There's no need for me to introduce this band. You should already know about it. If you don't, then what the hell are you doing here? Ahhh...I'll be kind I guess. Mercyful Fate is a Danish black/speed metal outfit that started out in the early 80's. Melissa being their debut. Their second album "Don't Break The Oath" is considered to be their best. However I think Melissa deserves more recognition too. It is my favourite Fate record.

It starts off with an on/off guitar riff and crashing cymbals and the music keeps progressing on throughout the album. With signature Fate solos, double leads, King's trademark double voclas, screaches and shrieks. This is one HELL of an album. It has a more traditional/hard rock feel to it compared to the darker one that encompasses the other albums. I'm not saying that 'Melissa' doesn't have it's share of evil, menacing moments. It sure does. My favourite song would definately be the title track. Just listen to it and read the lyrics. It's a masterpiece.

Fans of all kinds of metal will enjoy this, however some are turned off by King's vocals. I, on the other hand, love them.