Originally released in May 1998, Cradle of Filth’s heavy metal classic, Cruelty and the Beast is regarded as one of the milestones in the Gothic Black Metal genre, and is one of my personal favorites among the band's studio albums.
So it brings me great happiness to learn that now, 21 years later, this lustfully dark masterpiece has been wickedly remixed and remastered by Grindstone Studio’s Scott Atkins and will be reissued on November 1st 2019 through legendary UK label Music For Nations.
"Released on the 5th of May, around the same time as we were arrested at the Vatican, ‘Cruelty.. and The Beast’ had been a painstaking labour of love, a year of intense writing amid ever growing popularity and distraction," said frontman Dani Filth. "The album’s concept of the Hungarian blood countess Elizabeth Bathory -both historically astute and fictionally correct- was to become a dangerous obsession of mine and one that saw many a first light of dawn working on the lyrics, hellbent on making the story worthy of her legend."
Being released on CD, transparent red vinyl and digitally, this elevated version of Cruelty and The Beast features new artwork from band illuminator Stuart Williamson, exclusive linear notes from Dani Filth and Cvlt Black Metal writer and documentarian, Dayal Patterson as well as a bonus track cover of Iron Maiden’s "Hallowed Be Thy Name".
"Cruelty And The Beast has long been considered a milestone album in Cradle Of Filth's career, a combination of atmospheric storytelling and visceral, and surprisingly vicious, songs," said Patterson. "This 21st anniversary edition has bolstered those songs with an added weight, improving the sound considerably with a warmer and punchier mix, making it a must hear for long-time fans and newcomers alike."
75 limited edition test pressing vinyl versions will also be available, each coming with a personalised signed letter from the prince of darkness himself.
With singer Dani Filth fully committed to the collaboration and endorsement of both the new audio and artwork, the band will be working on promo and there will be a celebratory exclusive live show at London Palladium on October 19th where they will be performing the album in its entirety! Holy shit, I need to move to London!
"Cruelty And The Beast’ remains a phenomenally important album in the band’s back catalogue and one that I am exceptionally proud of, as I am exceptionally proud of this Re-Mistressed version, 21 years on from the original release," Dani Filth adds. "I hope the listener -sitting there by the flame-lit hearth with his/her walnut pipe on the go- thoroughly enjoys this Cradle classic, so vividly brought back to life for the fickle world today."
Pre-order today for your chance to win a prize pack consisting of a pair of meet and greet tickets to the October 19th gig at the Palladium, a signed setlist and a signed drum head!
Source: cradleoffilth.com