KING DIAMOND – Abigail II: The Revenge

I had Abigail first to visit me before Christmas, but it really took a while to get to know her. That’s why this review is a bit late. Maybe I’m slow, or maybe Abigail is a hard one to get familiar with, but once you do, it’s actually worth the company. Not a future classic like the first part, which I think was released back in 1987, part II lives up to its expectations. Then again, I wasn’t expecting the younger Abigail to beat the older one. As always with a King Diamond record, you find wicked vocals that you either get used to or will throw away the CD for. I got used to King’s voice, but it was – like Abigail – not an easy embrace. But what first of all is guaranteed with a King Diamond release, is the awesome and stunning guitar work from Andy LaRocque. He must be one the most underrated axeslingers in the genre. Again he delivers unique and neck-breaking riffs, though his work this time around is a bit more overshadowed by the concept and the different moods this record has. Also, his songwriting input is lees than usual. I have to admit I didn’t dive into the lyrics and the story yet, after all it took me a while to like the songs, but I might do one day though. Until then, I hope and believe that you have found it for yourself that you can still count on the King. Now let’s have the whole story (both parts) presented live…