While he has always been a consistent songwriter and performer, this can still be considered somewhat of a "comeback" album for King Diamond, as it is easily his strongest solo effort in over a decade. The energy here picks right up after Mercyful Fate's '9,' and in fact is a bit heavier than the standard KD solo fare of the past. There is great distortion-etched music throughout, with guitarists Andy LaRocque and Mike Wead turning in tremendous performances. A concept story is woven within the tracks, of course, and some occasional female vocals are sprinkled in to add to the effect in places.
Several cuts appear here that arguably belong in the King's "top ten" list of all time. The strong and driving "Magic" is one of those standout tunes, and has some great theatrical vocals in the chorus. "Blood to Walk" is another, with its fast-chopping verses and flowing chorus. There are plenty of neck-moving sections throughout, with strong vocals as well.
A pulling sway moves the aptly-titled "Darkness," with the surprising "Christmas" starting out with a holiday feel before kicking in and giving way to some tasty heaviness. All of "Blue Eyes," "The Ritual," "Living Dead," and the title track are fine metal offerings that help round out this very commendable metal release.

TRACK LIST: Midnight/The Puppet Master/Magic/Emergencia/Blue Eyes/The Ritual/No More Me/Blood to Walk/Darkness/So Sad/Christmas/Living Dead