Cradle Of Filth – Existence Is Futile - Album Streaming & Download

Origin : UK

Genre : Gothic Black Metal

Release : 2021

Album Info / Review

Intro:
The gothic vortex churns once more as Cradle of Filth unleashes “Existence Is Futile,” an album that dives headfirst into the abyss of existential dread, cosmic horror, and visceral brutality. Emerging from the shadows of the COVID-19 pandemic, this 13th studio offering from Dani Filth and his legion of darkness is a testament to their enduring commitment to theatrical, extreme metal. “Existence Is Futile” is not merely a collection of songs; it’s an operatic descent into madness, weaving a tapestry of mythological allusions, scientific speculation, and the raw, unadulterated terror of oblivion. The production is a hulking leviathan, allowing each instrument to breathe within the dense sonic landscape, from the razor-sharp guitar riffs to the thunderous percussion and the omnipresent, symphonic textures. This is Cradle of Filth at their most ambitious, a sprawling epic that demands an unblinking gaze into the void.

Track Analysis:
“The Cremation of Care” acts as a somber, orchestral overture, its Gregorian chant-like vocals and mournful strings setting a foreboding tone, a chilling prelude to the inferno that awaits. The title track, “Existential Torment,” erupts with a savage urgency. Dani Filth’s signature shrieks and guttural roars are as potent as ever, dissecting themes of mortality with surgical precision. The guitars, handled by Richard Shaw and Ashok, deliver a relentless barrage of tremolo-picked riffs, interspersed with moments of melodic grandeur that evoke a sense of tragic beauty. “Necrophilous Awakening” plunges into a more groove-oriented territory, its mid-tempo swagger punctuated by blast beats and a venomous vocal delivery that drips with contempt. The keyboards, masterfully orchestrated by Danny Beardsley, provide a crucial layer of atmosphere, conjuring images of decaying cathedrals and spectral apparitions.

“How Beautiful Hell Is” showcases the band’s uncanny ability to blend extreme aggression with gothic sensibilities. The symphonic elements are more pronounced here, building to a crescendo that is both terrifying and exhilarating. “Crawling Through Oblivion” is a relentless assault, a whirlwind of chaotic energy where the drums, particularly the double bass work of Martin Skaroupka, are a driving force. The basslines of Daniel Firth are a rumbling undercurrent, providing a solid foundation for the sonic maelstrom. “The Best Is Yet to Be” takes a surprising turn, incorporating a more melodic, almost melancholic, chorus that offers a brief respite before the darkness reclaims its hold. The interplay between the harsh vocals and the cleaner, more operatic backing vocals creates a compelling dynamic.

“Suffer Our Arts” is a visceral exploration of suffering, its aggressive riffing and blast beats mirroring the lyrical themes of torment. “Serpent’s Kiss” is a more atmospheric and seductive track, its slower tempo and haunting melodies drawing the listener into a dark embrace. The guitar solos throughout the album are not mere displays of technicality but serve the songs, weaving intricate patterns that enhance the emotional weight of each track. “Blackest Magick in Practice” is a return to the more traditional Cradle of Filth sound, with its fast-paced riffs and relentless vocal onslaught. The closing track, “The Death of Us All,” is a grand, operatic finale, bringing the album’s thematic concerns to a cathartic conclusion. It’s a sprawling, multi-layered piece that encapsulates the album’s ambition.

Conclusion:
“Existence Is Futile” is a formidable addition to Cradle of Filth’s discography, a testament to their unwavering dedication to crafting dark, epic, and sonically diverse extreme metal. The band has managed to refine their signature sound while pushing their boundaries, creating an album that is both familiar and refreshingly innovative. The lyrical themes are mature and introspective, delving into profound questions of existence and mortality with a theatrical flair that only Cradle of Filth can deliver. While the album’s length and thematic density might prove daunting for casual listeners, those who embrace its darkness will be rewarded with a rich and rewarding experience. It’s an album that demands repeated listens to fully unravel its intricate layers and thematic depths.