Four key members of King Diamond‘s iconic late-1980s lineup have officially joined forces in a brand-new band called Lex Legion. The heavy metal group features drummer Mikkey Dee, guitarist and producer Andy La Rocque, guitarist Pete Blakk, and bassist Hal Patino, alongside Pagan’s Mind lead vocalist Nils K. Rue.
Lex Legion has announced their arrival with the release of their debut single, “Sleep Eternally“. The accompanying music video was helmed by director Patric Ullaeus of the rEvolver Film Company.
Built upon a shared history that spans over four decades, the project originated as a long-discussed concept between Mikkey Dee and Pete Blakk before bringing in their longtime collaborators. Operating free from the constraints and egos of their earlier years, the seasoned musicians have channeled their extensive experience into this serious new creative endeavor.
With a collective resume that boasts tenures in legendary acts such as Motörhead, Scorpions, and Death, specifically highlighting Andy La Rocque‘s celebrated work on the seminal album Individual Thought Patterns, the band brings a massive pedigree to the table.
The band’s self-titled debut album, Lex Legion, is scheduled for release in June 2026 via MNRK Music Group. The record promises a deliberate return to the musicians’ classic heavy metal roots while maintaining a fresh, forward-facing sound. Listeners can expect lean instrumental arrangements, strong vocal melodies from Nils K. Rue, and the virtuoso performances that defined the group’s early careers.
Following the immediate, aggressive impact of “Sleep Eternally“, the album’s momentum will continue with the upcoming second single, “Gypsy Tears“. Blending classic influences with decades of industry expertise, the newly formed quintet aims to fill a distinct void in the modern hard rock and heavy metal landscape, proving that their long-awaited reunion was well worth the wait.
Discussing the stylistic approach of the new record, Andy La Rocque noted that the band is filling a specific gap in the modern metal landscape.
“There’s elements of everything on the album,” he said. “The right tempo and the right kind of vocals, both starting out like a fist in your face!”
“This is totally unique. No one is writing this kind of music and there’s a big hole for us to fill. The album is a journey and every song is like the beat of a movie. I want listeners to travel back,” Andy continued.
He further clarified how the new material compares to their previous work together.
“The song style is different (to King Diamond) but still from the same era. The riffs are different and the arrangements are a little less progressive and a little more straightforward.”
Mikkey Dee emphasized that the writing process was driven entirely by the band’s own creative desires, mirroring their uncompromised approach from the 1980s.
“Lex Legion is totally written the way we thought in the ‘80s. We wrote what we wanted, and if you liked it, that was a great bonus. If you didn’t like it, that was fine with us, too!”
Dee added: “Enjoy it or f**k off!”
Following the album’s summer release, Lex Legion plans to begin touring in 2027.
Lex Legion Tracklist:
- “Sleep Eternally”
- “Gypsy Tears”
- “When The Stars Align”
- “(I Am) The Resurrected”
- “Lost Inside”
- “Darkness”
- “Saviours”
- “Life Eternal”
- “Far Away”
