The Onion AV Club features their list of the Least Essential Albums of 2002 (the AV Club isn’t a parody, though I wouldn't blame you for being confused). Most of the artists I haven’t even heard of, but I recognized King Diamond.
Though it's a bit of an acquired taste, I do enjoy some Diamond from time to time. And, as his Abigail album was one of his best, I was rather looking forward to the follow-up. However, The Onion AV Club put it this way:
[…]The album includes a family tree so the easily confused can keep the characters straight, while the lyrics sheet, as always, makes it clear which guitarist is responsible for which solo at all times.
And, they say that like it’s a bad thing ;).
Actually, I was just in my local record store the other day with a pair of headphones on at the listening bar, thinking to myself “This album really blows!”
This album, of course, was Abigail II.
The production was lackluster, the singing was barely listenable at best and the whole point of the album seemed to be missing. For once, I think I actually have to agree with the AV club (though I don’t read it much): Leave this one on the shelf — not your shelf, mind you, but that of your local record store.
Instead, pick up the latest album from Nocturnal Rites and get your Swedish Metal fix!
*grin*
Give it another listen, I wasnt to sure of it myself. Now its one of my favorites. Try “Spirits” This cd is much more intricate and detailed it take a long time to understand. Read it and listen and you will understand, and one more thing 18 is actually 9!!!!