I mean, who didn’t see this coming? KING DIAMOND’s longtime guitarist Andy La Rocque has left the band, and in his place, the legendary Danish metal outfit has recruited the incredibly talented Gus G (FIREWIND, ex-Ozzy Osbourne). Because, you know, KING DIAMOND wasn’t already a behemoth of a band with a gazillion lineup changes. In a recent interview with Metal Injection, King Diamond himself explained that the split with La Rocque was a long time coming, citing creative differences and a desire to move in different directions. Yeah, because that’s never happened in the history of metal bands ever.
The End of an Era (Again)
King Diamond assured fans that the decision to part ways with La Rocque wasn’t made lightly, and that the two are still friends. Because, you know, it’s not like they’re going to start a Twitter feud or anything (although, let’s be real, that would be kind of amazing). The frontman also mentioned that La Rocque’s departure wasn’t due to his side project, LEX LEGION, but rather a gradual drifting apart. I guess that’s what happens when you’re in a band for 40 years – you start to grow apart, like an old married couple who still love each other but can’t stand each other’s snoring.
But fear not, dear KING DIAMOND fans! The band has already begun working on new material with Gus G, who will apparently be playing the classic songs “as close as he can” to La Rocque’s original versions. Because, you know, nobody wants to hear a bunch of new, innovative riffs – we want to hear the same old songs we’ve been listening to for decades, played exactly the same way. I mean, who needs progress or creativity when you can just stick with what works, right?
Gus G: The Savior of KING DIAMOND?
Gus G, for those who may not know, is a Greek guitar virtuoso who has played with everyone from Ozzy Osbourne to ARCH ENEMY. He’s like the metal equivalent of a session musician, but with more shredding and less jazz hands. King Diamond has praised Gus G’s skills, saying that he’s “down to earth” and “has the right attitude” – code for “he’s not a diva and will do what I say.” The two have already started working on new music together, with King Diamond writing the majority of the material (because, let’s be real, he’s the real star of the show).
But what does this mean for the future of KING DIAMOND? Will they continue to churn out the same old horror-themed metal they’ve been making for decades, or will Gus G bring a new spark to the band? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure – with KING DIAMOND, you can always expect a healthy dose of drama, intrigue, and face-melting guitar solos. And if you’re lucky, maybe they’ll even throw in some pyrotechnics and a giant spider web or two. 🕷️🔥
In related news, KING DIAMOND and MERCYFUL FATE are both working on new albums, because why not? It’s not like they have anything better to do, like, say, retirement or something. The MERCYFUL FATE album is expected to be released in May 2027, with the KING DIAMOND album following in April 2028. Because, you know, we need more metal albums in our lives – it’s not like we have enough already. 🤣
So, there you have it – the latest chapter in the never-ending saga of KING DIAMOND. Stay tuned for more updates, and in the meantime, go listen to some of their old albums or something. I hear “Abigail” is a real treat. 🎃️👻
Chord F. Discord, the Beethoven of Buffoonery, is a self-taught expert in music who once claimed he could “play the kazoo in four languages.”
Born in Crescendo, Indiana, Chord’s first brush with fame came when he accidentally entered a yodeling contest thinking it was a pie-eating competition—and won both categories.
Chord F. Discord: proving that laughter, much like a poorly tuned ukulele, is truly universal.
