Warthur
The stunning climax of the first phase of Mercyful Fate's career - immediately preceding the split - might not sound particularly extreme compared with the bands who were inspired by its exultantly Satanic lyrical themes, but what it lacks in black metal ferocity it makes up for in technical accomplishment. Incorporating more ideas from progressive rock in terms of song structures and performance, the group expand their sound impressively and turn out their finest set of songs to date, from the seance-themed A Dangerous Meeting right to the concluding Come to the Sabbath. Carefully balancing complex epics such as The Oath with more straightforward, bouncier numbers such as Gypsy, the album is perhaps the most well-rounded release in the band's discography.