In 1997, Metal Express Radio had the opportunity to interview Hank Shermann, the legendary guitarist of Danish heavy metal pioneers Mercyful Fate. The band was promoting their album Into the Unknown, a record that showcased their evolving sound while retaining their signature style. Hank Shermann sheds light on the creative process behind the album, lineup changes, and the band’s reflections on their lyrical themes and live performances. Dive into this fascinating interview with one of Metal’s most influential musicians.
Metal Express Radio: Into the Unknown feels like a step forward for Mercyful Fate. Would you agree?
Hank Shermann: Absolutely. This album marks progress in many ways. While it wasn’t intentional to make it sound like our earlier works, some elements naturally came together in the studio. We worked with producer Sterling Winfield in a new studio and introduced Mike Weed as our new guitarist. These factors brought fresh dynamics to the recording process and gave us a powerful production compared to our previous record.
Metal Express Radio: So would you say that the nostalgic feel of some tracks was coincidental?
Hank Shermann: Not entirely coincidental, Mercyful Fate sounds like Mercyful Fate does. During recording, we revisited techniques from albums like Melissa and Don’t Break the Oath. For example, we used the same amps and incorporated back-to-back guitar solos similar to what we did in the early ’80s. These elements naturally brought back that classic vibe.
Metal Express Radio: There’s been a lineup change with Michael Denner leaving. Can you tell us more about that?
Hank Shermann: Michael had a lot going on. He became a father, got married, bought a house, and started his own record company in Copenhagen. These commitments made it difficult for him to give Mercyful Fate the attention it needed. Together, we decided he should step back. His first suggestion for his replacement was Mike Weed from Memento Mori and Hexenhaus. Mike was thrilled to join since he’d been a fan of ours for years.
Metal Express Radio: Is Mike Weed now a permanent member?
Hank Shermann: Yes, he’s fully integrated into the band now and will contribute more to future albums.
Metal Express Radio: Speaking of contributions, King Diamond writes many songs himself. How complete are they when he brings them to rehearsals?
Hank Shermann: King’s songs are usually fully structured, guitar parts, bass lines, drum patterns (via his drum machine), and even vocal arrangements are all laid out. We can tweak solos or drum fills here and there, but the foundation is solid when it reaches us.
Metal Express Radio: Your lyrics have evolved since your comeback. They’re less dark than before. Why is that?
Hank Shermann: When we reformed, King toned down the overtly satanic and occult themes. He still writes about similar topics but uses subtler language now, exploring spirituality, life after death, horror stories, and historical events. That said, recent albums have seen him reintroducing some darker elements.
Metal Express Radio: You’ve toured extensively with both King Diamond and Mercyful Fate performing on the same nights. How did that work?
Hank Shermann: It was tough for King since he had to perform twice each night. To make it manageable, we shortened both sets to about an hour each. The shows were well-received, especially in cities like Helsinki, Stockholm, and Copenhagen, but it’s not something we’d do again!
Metal Express Radio: Finally, do you have a favorite track from Into the Unknown?
Hank Shermann: Right now, my personal favorite is “The Night,” the second track on the album.
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