The Thing That Should Not Be Melds Eerie Ambiance with Grinding Riffs

Emerging from the hallowed halls of death metal history, “The Thing That Should Not Be” by Mercyful Fate stands as a testament to the genre’s capacity for both raw aggression and unsettling atmosphere. Released in 1983 as part of their groundbreaking album Melissa, this track cemented Mercyful Fate’s place among heavy metal legends, leaving an indelible mark on the sound and aesthetic of extreme music.

The song opens with a chilling acoustic guitar passage, setting the stage for King Diamond’s signature falsetto vocals to weave a tale of Lovecraftian horror. The lyrics delve into the depths of forbidden knowledge and eldritch entities, invoking imagery of unspeakable dread and cosmic terror. King Diamond’s vocal delivery is masterful; oscillating between menacing whispers and soaring screams that pierce through the dense instrumentation.

The track transitions seamlessly into a torrent of heavy riffs delivered by guitarist Hank Shermann. The combination of chugging rhythm guitar and melodic lead lines creates a sound both brutal and haunting. Drummer Kim Ruus’ relentless drumming provides a driving force behind the music, propelling the song forward with unwavering intensity. Michael Denner’s basslines add another layer of depth, anchoring the music and providing a solid foundation for the soaring guitars and vocals.

Mercyful Fate’s unique blend of heavy metal, gothic horror themes, and progressive musical elements set them apart from their contemporaries. They embraced theatricality in their live performances, incorporating macabre imagery and elaborate stage costumes that further enhanced the immersive experience. Their music captured a sense of otherworldly dread and occult fascination that resonated with a generation of metalheads hungry for something beyond the conventional.

“The Thing That Should Not Be” is not simply a song; it’s an evocative journey into the darkest corners of the imagination. The track’s dynamic shifts between eerie atmosphere and bone-crushing heaviness create a captivating listening experience that continues to resonate with fans decades after its release.

Let’s delve deeper into the intricacies that make this song such a landmark in heavy metal history:

Dissecting “The Thing That Should Not Be”:

The song’s enduring legacy lies in its ability to transcend genre boundaries and connect with listeners on an emotional level.

Historical Context:

Mercyful Fate emerged from the fertile Danish metal scene of the early 1980s, a period marked by innovation and experimentation within the heavy metal landscape. The band’s unique sound, blending elements of traditional heavy metal with gothic horror aesthetics and progressive songwriting, set them apart from their contemporaries. Their lineup included:

• King Diamond: Vocalist known for his distinctive falsetto and theatrical stage presence.
• Hank Shermann: Lead guitarist responsible for crafting the band’s signature riffs and melodic lead lines.
• Michael Denner: Bassist whose driving basslines provided a solid foundation for the music.
• Kim Ruus: Drummer whose relentless drumming style propelled Mercyful Fate’s songs forward with unyielding intensity.

While Mercyful Fate achieved cult status in Europe, their music gained wider recognition in the United States following the release of Melissa. The album’s success paved the way for future generations of extreme metal bands, including Metallica and Slayer, who cited Mercyful Fate as a major influence.

Conclusion:

“The Thing That Should Not Be” is more than just a song; it’s a sonic portal into the world of Lovecraftian horror, crafted by musicians at the pinnacle of their creative powers. Its ability to blend aggression with atmosphere, melody with brutality, and theatricality with musical substance makes it an enduring classic in the heavy metal pantheon. The track stands as a testament to Mercyful Fate’s innovative spirit and their undeniable impact on the evolution of extreme music.

Listening to “The Thing That Should Not Be” is an experience that transcends mere musical enjoyment; it’s a journey into the dark recesses of imagination, guided by the masterful musicianship of one of heavy metal’s most influential bands.