Album Review: Cradle of Filth – Midnight in the Labyrinth

By Meghan Player
Cradle Of Filth have always been known for their signature take on the dark wave, gothic metal sound and grandiose theatrics. Latest offering, ‘Midnight in the Labyrinth’ – an orchestral selection of the bands first four albums – is no exception.

Opening with a glorious string section of sweeping, melodic sound ‘A Gothic Romance [Red Roses For The Devil’s Whore]’ pulls the listener into an album that not only celebrates the band, but reinvents the tracks that once pounded through your headphones.

‘The Twisted Nails of Faith’ sounds almost as if it has come straight from a melodramatic, theatrical musical – with striking strings, stirring vocals and choirs intertwining with frontman Dani Filth’s narrative growl.

Not an album to be taken lightly, ‘Funeral in Carpathia’ follows its predecessors suit, weaving hypnotic melodies and medieval imagery into the heart and mind of the listener. Unsurprisingly, this album would not sound out of place during an episode of Game of Thrones.

‘Dusk And Her Embrace’ a one time favourite COF track – takes on a majestic and astoundingly regal sound – breathing new life into a melody and narrative that caught my attention years ago.

Not to give too much away, the album must be heard to be believed. Each track builds on the previous ones theatrics, drama and grandiose – pulling you into a gorgeous array of sound and imagery.

Arguably, this is Cradle of Filth at their heart-achingly, gothic best. It makes me wonder why they didn’t try this years ago.

By Meghan Player

More articles by Meghan Player