"Bone" vinyl

"...Songs like “Thirteen Autumns and a Widow”, along with “Cruelty Brought Thee Orchids” fly with high tempos and ripping vocals. Both tracks have an underlining symphonic element that is haunting. “Bathory Aria” is a more traditional sound on this record, as it trudges forward with thick mist energy, taking on a slower approach and adding weight to atmosphere. “The Twisted Nails of Faith” feels like the complete opposite in that matter, and leans more towards what the band is known for today. Brighter elements combined with speed take on a more goth rock energy in this particular title.

Cruelty and the Beast does not simply borrow the sound from the past, but builds upon it to create something new. The goth rock elements make themselves clear throughout, but never become overly poppy or get in the way of the foundation. There is atmosphere, there are the tempo shifts that establish aura, and even the lyricism is a great mix between being sinister and playful. In their years the band has changed greatly, but upon first starting out they really carried the torch with a darker flare. Cruelty and the Beast holds so many elements between those magical lyrics, instrumentals, and atmosphere that others wanted to explore more of. Through this work Cradle of Filth have crafted one of the best records to ever be part of, and popularize the genre."

- metalinjection.net