Cruelty and the Beast

by Cradle of Filth

Cruelty and the Beast cover art

A landmark concept album centered on the legend of the 'Blood Countess' Elizabeth Báthory, 'Cruelty and the Beast' is a defining statement in symphonic and gothic metal. The record balances ferocious black metal velocity with opulent keyboard arrangements, literary lyricism, and a palpable sense of gothic horror. Despite a notoriously thin original production, the album's ambitious scope and dramatic songwriting on tracks like 'Cruelty Brought Thee Orchids' have cemented it as an enduring fan favorite.

Genres

  • Symphonic Black Metal
  • Gothic Metal

Tracklist

  1. Once Upon Atrocity
  2. Thirteen Autumns and a Widow
  3. Cruelty Brought Thee Orchids
  4. Beneath the Howling Stars
  5. Venus In Fear
  6. Desire In Violent Overture
  7. The Twisted Nails of Faith
  8. Bathory Aria
  9. Portrait of the Dead Countess
  10. Lustmord And Wargasm (The Lick of Carnivorous Winds)