Thornography

Roadrunner Records
October 16th, 2006


Written by Shadow_Walker (metal archives member) on December 22nd, 2007

Cradle of Filth, as one of the most well-known metal bands, are much criticized and much loved. Some people hate them, some appreciate their music. Well, I am a big fan of them so I’ll review CoF’s newest album to date as such.

When I listen to music, I see it in color. For me “Thornography” is indigo. Why? Because it’s dark, mysterious, independent, strange, heavy, melodic and certainly different. “Thornoghraphy” shows the desire of the band for something new. It’s filled with new ideas and experimentation with different styles, structures, feelings. As a whole this release is like a gothic-horror movie soundtrack with its furious and/or melodic sound.

The ever-changing line up can be seen as some of the main reasons for the band to involve from black/death metal to what they are now. With “Thornography”, CoF have made yet another change in their style. The style of the album shows a thrash influence. But the thrashy riffs are lead by the dark-erotic gothic feeling. This release is much guitar-driven and heavier than any of CoF’s recent works. Here the keyboards and synth do not play such an important role, although where they are present, they sound great. The album is also not so commercial, it’s catchy but in the good sense. There are some flaws but generally the songs are very impressive and grabbing the attention with great riffs and nice solos. “Thornography” has these gloomy tracks about death, love, despair, etc. Most of them are based on the contrast between the brutal the melancholic parts. The order is also good chosen. Dani Filth, the link between everything CoF have made, as always has provided the lyrics and the vocals. But his vocal style is also changed – he makes new tricks, even clean singing.

Some may think this is yet another step down, just another album, but in my opinion this is a step up. This release is way better than “Nymphetamine” and the sound is much closer to the old school albums. Well, “Thornography” may not be CoF’s defining album. However it’s very good. I can’t really describe all the feelings I feel while listening to the album but I’m very pleased with it and I really enjoy “Thornoghraphy” every time.

Highlights: “Tonight in Flames”, “The Foetus of a new day kicking”, “Under the huntress moon”, “Byronic Man”, “Dirge inferno”.