We have a jam-packed evening tonight with four bands on the lineup. Whilst most of the crowd are donning the stereotypical 'Corpse Paint', fitting in with Cradle of Filth's aesthetic, fans were treated to a variety of sounds tonight.
First up was New York band Black Satellite, a relatively short set but with many high-energy moments and guttural screams. A highlight for the audience was finishing with a cover of Rammstien's 'Sonne'.
Next up was High Parasite, fans of the band My Dying Bride may recognise singer Aaron Stainthorpe fronting the band. Less in line with the Doom Metal sound of either Stainthorpe's usual act or COF, but closer to 'Death Pop', almost a slightly darker Sisters of Mercy.
Following up was Butcher Babies, and wow what an entrance. Despite the technical difficulties of not being able to hear front-woman Heidi Shepherd's vocals, she came out with a band and carried on like nothing was wrong. A very powerful set with the reminder of the power music can have on one's mental health as Shepherd told a touching anecdote of her struggles in 2019 and how performing saved her.
Lastly, the main act for the night, Cradle of Filth, takes the stage to music from Hellraiser, which is fitting as guitarist Marek "Ashok" Šmerda donned a fit which resembled ‘pinhead’ from the franchise. The stage is dressed with two giant skeletons on both sides with green glowing eyes, and finally, singer Dani Filth reveals himself from under a cloak. Opening with, 'Existential Terror', it was clear that Dani Filth's vocal range and iconic screeches have not diminished with time. His shrill highs and guttural lows were both terrifying and thrilling, showcasing his unique ability to channel both melody and menace. Dani’s commanding presence, clad in leather and spikes, pulled the audience into each song with a ferocity that’s hard to match.
Blasting through 'The Forest Whispers My Name' and 'Summer Dying Fast', we are treated to 'Malignant Perfection', which Filth confesses 'We may fuck it up' as it is still new for them to play live.
Finishing off the set with 'Her Ghost in the Fog', you can't help but feel the set was somewhat short, but I suppose with a packed-out support slot, it was to be somewhat compromised.
Cradle of Filth’s performance was nothing short of spectacular. They delivered a set that balanced brutality with artistry, and darkness with moments of gothic beauty. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their brand of extreme metal, a Cradle of Filth concert is a memorable experience, equal parts haunting and exhilarating. This show served as a testament to their enduring legacy and their unique place in the metal world. The only thing left to say, after a night of demonic screams and dark poetry, is that Cradle of Filth continues to be a force to be reckoned with in the realms of extreme and gothic metal.
Cradle of Filth album is set to release a new album in March 2025.
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