Lex Legion
Swedish heavy metal supergroup reuniting four-fifths of King Diamond's early-1990s lineup.
Lex Legion is a Swedish heavy metal supergroup that came together in 2026. The lineup features vocalist Nils K. Rue, guitarists Andy LaRocque and Pete Blakk, bassist Hal Patino, and drummer Mikkey Dee. The band’s first album, also titled *Lex Legion*, came out in 2026 on MNRK Music Group.
The group was started by Mikkey Dee and Pete Blakk, who wanted to record together again after their time in King Diamond. The project grew to include Andy LaRocque and Hal Patino, reuniting four-fifths of that classic King Diamond lineup, with Nils K. Rue from Pagan’s Mind taking over vocals. The band was officially announced in March 2026, and their debut single, “Sleep Eternally,” followed shortly after. The self-titled album was released that June. In May 2026, the band announced their first live show in Gothenburg, Sweden, originally set for November 28 but later moved to December 11.
Musically, Lex Legion is described as traditional heavy metal with melodic and progressive metal touches. Critics have compared their sound to King Diamond’s classic work, as well as to influences like Iron Maiden and Queensrÿche.
The debut album received generally positive reviews. Dom Lawson of Blabbermouth.net gave it an 8.5 out of 10, praising the songwriting, musicianship, and production as a successful collaboration among veteran metal musicians. Matti Riekki of Chaoszine called it “a supergroup that actually sounds like one,” highlighting the chemistry and strong material. Positive reviews also came from Sonic Perspectives, metal.de, and Twilight Magazin, all noting the band’s musicianship, songwriting, and performances.
Members: Nils K. Rue (vocals), Andy LaRocque (guitars), Pete Blakk (guitars), Hal Patino (bass), Mikkey Dee (drums). Discography includes the studio album *Lex Legion* (2026) and the singles “Sleep Eternally” (2026) and “Gypsy Tears” (2026).
- formed
- 2026
- origin
- Sweden
- genre
- Traditional heavy metal with melodic and progressive metal elements
- members
- Nils K. Rue, Andy LaRocque, Pete Blakk, Hal Patino, Mikkey Dee
- debut_album
- Lex Legion (2026)
Lore & Background
Lex Legion was formed by Mikkey Dee and Pete Blakk, who discussed recording together again following their years in King Diamond. The project later expanded to include Andy LaRocque and Hal Patino, thus reuniting four-fifths of King Diamond's lineup from the early 1990s, with vocalist Nils K. Rue of Pagan's Mind completing the lineup. The band was publicly announced in March 2026. Its debut single, "Sleep Eternally", was released shortly afterward. The band's debut album Lex Legion was subsequently released that June through MNRK Music Group. In May 2026, the band announced its first live performance in Gothenburg, Sweden, originally scheduled to take place on November 28. The show was later moved to December 11.
Reader's Guide
Lex Legion's significance lies in reuniting four-fifths of King Diamond's classic late-1980s lineup, bringing together musicians with a shared history in one of heavy metal's most distinctive acts. The band's self-titled debut album received generally positive reviews from music critics, with Dom Lawson of Blabbermouth.net awarding it 8.5 out of 10 and praising its songwriting, musicianship and production. Matti Riekki of Chaoszine described Lex Legion as 'a supergroup that actually sounds like one,' praising the chemistry between the musicians and the strength of the material. Critics noted similarities to the classic works of King Diamond while also highlighting influences from bands such as Iron Maiden and Queensrÿche. The band's music has been described as traditional heavy metal with elements of melodic and progressive metal. Their legacy is tied to the successful collaboration of veteran musicians and the positive reception of their debut work.
Did You Know?
- Lex Legion was formed by Mikkey Dee and Pete Blakk, who discussed recording together again after their years in King Diamond.
- The band's debut single, "Sleep Eternally", was released shortly after the band was publicly announced in March 2026.
- The band's first live performance was originally scheduled for November 28, 2026 in Gothenburg, Sweden, but was later moved to December 11.
- While all members except Nils K. Rue played together in King Diamond, Hal Patino and Pete Blakk joined the band in 1990, not the late 1980s.
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