Cruelty and the Beast
Cradle of Filth · 1998
58 min · 10 tracks · gothic metal · extreme metal
A darkly theatrical blend of extreme metal and gothic elements, drenched in haunting melodies and intricate compositions.
Why this album works
'Cruelty and the Beast' received critical acclaim, particularly for its ambitious storytelling and musical complexity. It is often credited with influencing the gothic metal genre and features the controversial track 'Bathory Aria,' which has been discussed for its thematic depth related to historical figures, further cementing the band's place in heavy metal history.
- Best for
- theatrical storytelling with intensity dynamic peaks and valleys darkly immersive headphone experience
- Context
- Released on May 5, 1998, 'Cruelty and the Beast' marked Cradle of Filth's fourth studio album and their first major-label release after signing with Music for Nations. The band was solidifying its reputation as a leading force in the extreme metal scene, following the successful 'Midian' which had garnered them significant attention.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Lacrimas Profundere· Theatre of Tragedy· Dark the Suns
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Once Upon Atrocity 1:43
- 2 Thirteen Autumns and a Widow Standout 7:14
- 3 Cruelty Brought Thee Orchids Standout 7:18
- 4 Beneath the Howling Stars 7:42
- 5 Venus in Fear 2:20
- 6 Desire in Violent Overture 4:16
- 7 The Twisted Nails of Faith 6:50
- 8 Bathory Aria: Benighted Like Usher / A Murder of Ravens in Fugue / Eyes That Witnessed Madness Standout 11:02
- 9 Portrait of the Dead Countess 2:52
- 10 Lustmord and Wargasm (The Lick of Carnivorous Winds) 7:30
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.