Most people already have a clear opinion of Cradle Of Filth. Generally speaking the band are rather polarizing and have done little over time to change that fact. While some opinions may be unfounded, the band also do much to make the most of their fanbase. The band plays a very dramatized style of what could almost be called Orchestral Black Metal (i.e. the last couple Dimmu Borgir albums). That is not to say they are catchy or are any less upsetting in their own way. Their albums always huge productions with story lines guiding them along. I honestly don't remember the last time they didn't release a concept album of some sort. This album is centered around the character of Lilith. This character was Adam's (yes, the biblical one) first wife.
The band goes a long way to continue on their own progression. So many outboard instruments seem to make appearances building an almost orchestral wall of sound. This album includes choral work and orchestral pieces within the songs. This should be of no surprise to anyone familiar with the band. This only helps to create a sense of drama within the songs. With all of these extra elements the main instruments tend to take a bit of a backseat. So with that said I can't truly pick out any special riffs or drum fills throughout the albums running time. That is not to take anything away from the players, as everything is capably played. The main complaint there seems to be regarding the band is one Dani Filth. The main man and consistent member of the band. The man has truly interesting voice. Mainly relying on ungodly screeches. Not screaming, screeches. For most this is the breaking point and in some ways it is what makes the band stick out among their peers. The man does use different vocal patterns throughout employing grunts and growls depending on the song. The screeches seem to do more to take away from the atmosphere that band goes so far to try and build.
The production work is as clear as day. This is not unexpected as allowing the instruments to be overtaken by grimy production would do little to help their cause. Unfortunately the mixing is what becomes upsetting over time. As mentioned before the orchestral elements are allowed to take over and whenever they do show up (which is often) they overshadow all other elements of the songs. In general this album is not going to help or hurt their fan base. There is nothing here that is overly upsetting but also nothing to help them gain any new fans either. This is an ably done album that stays true to their given style.
