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Band Timeline

1991

Formation of Cradle of Filth

Cradle of Filth was formed in Suffolk, England, in 1991 by vocalist Dani Filth alongside original members including guitarist Paul Ryan, keyboardist Ben Ryan, bassist John Pritchard, and drummer Darren Gardner. The band emerged within the extreme metal scene, blending influences from black metal and gothic music. Early on, the band focused on creating a distinct style with dark and gothic lyrical themes inspired by literature, mythology, and horror.
1992-1993

Early Demos and Lineup Changes

During their first years, Cradle of Filth recorded a series of demos that helped define their sound. These included 'Invoking the Unclean' (1992), 'Orgiastic Pleasures Foul', and 'Total Fucking Darkness'. The period was marked by rapid lineup changes which saw shifts in guitarists, bassists, and drummers. Notably, Robin Eaglestone joined as bassist and Paul Allender as guitarist, both becoming key contributors to the band’s evolving sound.
1994

Debut Album 'The Principle of Evil Made Flesh' and Signing with Cacophonous Records

Cradle of Filth signed with Cacophonous Records and released their debut studio album, 'The Principle of Evil Made Flesh' in 1994. The album showcased a raw and embryonic version of their style with Dani Filth’s distinct vocals developing but not yet fully formed. The release gained critical attention within the black metal community and was later recognized as a classic, featuring in Metal Hammer's top ten black metal albums of the prior twenty years.
1995-1996

Label Disputes and Transition to Music for Nations

The band experienced acrimonious legal and financial disputes with Cacophonous Records during 1995. Amidst contractual difficulties, they released the EP 'V Empire or Dark Faerytales in Phallustein' in 1996, signaling the end of their relationship with the label. Several members left, and Cradle of Filth signed with the European label Music for Nations in late 1996, marking a new chapter in their career with a refreshed lineup including guitarist Gian Pyres.
1996

Release of 'Dusk... and Her Embrace'

'Dusk... and Her Embrace' was released under Music for Nations in 1996, significantly expanding Cradle of Filth’s cult following. This album exhibited a more polished production and complex arrangements aligning with symphonic and gothic metal elements. It featured a fuller use of keyboards and orchestration, helping establish the band's reputation for theatrical and atmospheric extreme metal.
1998-2000

Albums 'Cruelty and the Beast' and 'Midian' along with Continued Lineup Changes

Cradle of Filth released 'Cruelty and the Beast' in 1998, a concept album exploring the legend of Elizabeth Báthory. Keyboardist Les Smith joined, and drummer Adrian Erlandsson replaced Nick Barker. Following this, the band released 'Midian' in 2000, their last album on Music for Nations, showcasing further refinement in their blend of gothic and extreme metal. Throughout this period, the band underwent several lineup shifts, including the return of Paul Allender on guitar.
2001-2004

New Label Signings and Albums with Orchestration

In 2001, Cradle of Filth released 'Bitter Suites to Succubi' through their own label Abracadaver in the UK and Spitfire Records in the US. They signed with Sony for one album, 'Damnation and a Day' (2003), which incorporated choirs and orchestras, enhancing their symphonic metal sound. After this, they moved to Roadrunner Records, continuing with albums 'Nymphetamine' (2004) which garnered commercial success and critical acclaim.
2006-2008

Further Releases and Consolidation of Sound with Roadrunner Records

Cradle of Filth released 'Thornography' in 2006 and 'Godspeed on the Devil's Thunder' in 2008 under Roadrunner Records. These albums continued to evolve their signature mix of gothic atmosphere, symphonic elements, and extreme metal aggression. The band solidified their place as a leading force in the metal scene by balancing accessibility with their dark, theatrical aesthetic.
2010

Independent Release and Lineup Developments

In 2010, Cradle of Filth independently released 'Darkly, Darkly, Venus Aversa' via their Abracadaver label through Peaceville Records. This period saw the departure of long-time female vocalist Sarah Jezebel Deva, who had contributed to the band’s signature sound since the mid-1990s. The album marked a continued exploration of conceptual gothic themes with a mature approach to songwriting and production.
2015-2016

Later Releases and Revisiting Early Works

The band released 'Hammer of the Witches' in 2015, a critically praised album that reaffirmed their creative vitality and retained their gothic and extreme metal identity. In 2016, they released 'Dusk... and Her Embrace: The Original Sin,' the previously scrapped original version of their 1996 album, recorded with the original 1994 lineup. This release offered fans insight into the band’s early development and history.
2020s-Present

Ongoing Activity and Legacy

Cradle of Filth remains active with current members including vocalist Dani Filth, drummer Martin Škaroupka, bassist Daniel Firth, guitarists Marek Šmerda and Donny Burbage, and keyboardist Zoe Marie Federoff. Known for their dramatic live performances and impressive festival appearances such as Ozzfest and Download, they have sold millions of records worldwide and are considered one of the most successful British metal bands since Iron Maiden. Their influence on gothic and extreme metal genres persists as they continue to release new music and tour.
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Daniel Firth

2012

Bass guitar

Lindsay Schoolcraft

2013

Background vocals

Keyboard

Dani Filth

1991

Lead vocals

Martin "Marthus" Škaroupka

2006

Membranophone

James McIlroy

2009

Guitar

Richard Shaw

2014

Electric guitar

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

William A. "Was" Sarginson

1999
1999

Membranophone

Darren White

1991
1992

Membranophone

Dave Hirschheimer

1999
1999

Membranophone

Paul Ryan

1991
1994

Guitar

Dhiraz Wregmi

2007
2007

Bass guitar

Nicholas Barker

1992
1999

Drums (drum set)

Sarah Jezebel Deva

1995
2008

Background vocals

Paul Mcglone

1996
1996

Guitar

Paul Allender

1992
1995

Guitar

Anabelle Iratni

2019
2022

Lead vocals

Caroline Campbell

2011
2012

Background vocals

Keyboard

Charles Hedger

2005
2009

Guitar

James McIlroy

2003
2005

Guitar

Damien Gregori

1994
1997

Keyboard

Danielle Cneajna Cottington

1994
1998

Background vocals

Anabelle Iratni

2019
2022

Keyboard

Benjamin Ryan

1991
1994

Keyboard

Robin Eaglestone

1992
2002

Bass guitar

Andrea Haugen

1993
1994

Background vocals

Adrian Erlandsson

1999
2006

Drums (drum set)

Bryan Hipp

1994
1995

Guitar

Anabelle Iratni

2019
2022

Lyre

Rosie Smith

2005
2009

Background vocals

Keyboard

Carolyn Gretton

2008
2008

Background vocals

Sarah Jezebel Deva

2011
2011

Background vocals

Mark Newby-Robson

1999
1999

Keyboard

Jonathan Pritchard

1991
1992

Bass guitar

Dave Pybus

2002
2012

Bass guitar

Jon Kennedy

1994
1995

Bass guitar

Ashley Ellyllon

2009
2011

Background vocals

Keyboard

Les Smith

1997
1999

Keyboard

Rishi Mehta

1994
1994

Guitar

Darren Donnarumma

1999
1999

Guitar

Paul Allender

2000
2014

Guitar

Gian Pyres

1996
2002

Guitar

Stuart Anstis

1995
1999

Guitar

Mark Newby-Robson

2006
2011

Keyboard

Martin Powell

2000
2005

Violin

Keyboard

Guitar

Story of Cradle of Filth

Cradle of Filth: A Journey From Black Metal to Gothic Metal Titans

Cradle of Filth, hailing from the depths of Suffolk, England, burst onto the extreme metal scene in 1991. Initially steeped in the raw fury of black metal, they evolved into a force to be reckoned with, forging a distinct and compelling sound that blended the darkness of gothic metal, the grandeur of symphonic metal, and other metal genres.

Their lyrical tapestry, woven with threads of Gothic literature, poetry, mythology, and horror films, creates a unique and unsettling atmosphere. At the helm is the band's founding member and vocalist, Dani Filth, a charismatic figure whose stage presence and lyrical prowess have become synonymous with Cradle of Filth. The band is also comprised of seasoned musicians including drummer Martin "Marthus" Škaroupka, bassist Daniel Firth, guitarists Marek "Ashok" Šmerda and Donny Burbage, and keyboardist Zoe Marie Federoff.

While retaining their core extreme metal roots, Cradle of Filth transcended their niche by embracing mainstream exposure. This strategic move brought them to the attention of major publications like Kerrang! and MTV, and propelled them onto the stages of iconic festivals like Ozzfest, Download, and even the mainstream Sziget Festival.

Their embrace of theatrics and their imagery, while often drawing comparisons to Satanism, are more for shock value than genuine belief. While their lyrical references to Satanism are few and far between, their aesthetic and presentation have cemented their image as a band that thrives on pushing boundaries and challenging norms.

Early Years (1991-1996)

The band's first three years were characterized by a whirlwind of demos (Invoking the Unclean, Orgiastic Pleasures Foul, and Total Fucking Darkness) and frequent lineup changes. In fact, Cradle of Filth has had over thirty musicians pass through its ranks throughout its history.

An album, "Goetia," was recorded prior to their third demo and slated for release on Tombstone Records. Tragically, the label went out of business, and the band, lacking the funds to reclaim the recordings, saw their debut work vanish into the void.

The Rise of a Gothic Metal Icon:

The story of Cradle of Filth is one of relentless creativity, constant evolution, and a refusal to be confined by genre boundaries. From their black metal roots to their present status as gothic metal titans, they've carved a unique path for themselves, leaving an indelible mark on the extreme metal landscape.

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