Cradle Of Filth | V Empire or Dark Faerytales In Phallustein EP | Darkness Shall Rise Productions

 

    Cradle Of Filth is an English extreme metal band formed in Suffolk in 1991. Emerging from the early second-wave black metal movement, the band quickly developed a unique sound blending theatrical elements, symphonic arrangements, gothic horror themes, and complex song structures. Vocalist and lyricist Dani Filth has remained the central figure of the band since its inception. Their early works like “The Principle Of Evil Made Flesh” (1994) and “Dusk... And Her Embrace” (1996) shaped the gothic-symphonic black metal style that the band would become known for, balancing fast tempos, shrieking vocals, orchestral interludes, and vampire-fantasy storytelling. Over time, Cradle Of Filth became one of the most widely recognized and controversial names in extreme metal, both for their imagery and their evolving sound.

Released on April 22, 1996, "V Empire or Dark Faerytales In Phallustein" is often considered a transitional release. Although labeled an EP, its length and scope position it closer to a full album. It marks the end of the band's relationship with Cacophonous Records and the beginning of a new chapter musically. This release features several important changes: a new lineup, a sharper musical direction, and the first appearance of Sarah Jezebel Deva, whose operatic vocals added depth to the band’s future sound.

Even though it was produced quickly to fulfill contractual obligations, "V Empire" sounds fully realized, more structured than its predecessor, and already hints at the elaborate arrangements that would define “Dusk... And Her Embrace”. The EP also features a re-recorded version of “The Forest Whispers My Name,” linking the past with the then-present lineup. The improved production helps bring the songs to life with more force and clarity than the debut, while the atmosphere remains intact.

Track By Track:

I. Ebony Dressed For Sunset – 2:49

A brief and aggressive opener. It jumps straight into the action with blast beats and layered screams. The short length makes it function well as an introduction to the EP’s sound.

II. The Forest Whispers My Name – 4:41

This re-recorded version of this classic from the debut album improves on the original with tighter instrumentation and clearer vocal layering. The song retains its pagan atmosphere, and the updated performance feels more controlled and deliberate.

III. Queen Of Winter, Throned – 10:27

Arguably the finest track Cradle Of Filth ever wrote. Over ten minutes long, this epic combines many of the elements that would define the band going forward—dramatic choirs, soaring female vocals, narrative transitions, and sharp shifts in tempo. A sprawling composition filled with baroque ambition and melodic complexity.

IV. Nocturnal Supremacy – 5:53

Fast, rhythmically intense, and direct. It maintains the aggression while also incorporating atmospheric keys and layered vocal arrangements. It balances fury with structure and offers some of the tightest instrumental interplay on the EP.

V. She Mourns A Lengthening Shadow – 3:42

An instrumental track led by keyboards. It serves as a breather between the heavier songs, adding gothic texture. It helps the pacing of the EP and builds anticipation for the finale.

VI. The Rape And Ruin Of Angels (Hosannas In Extremis) – 8:52

Another long and ambitious track that closes the EP. This song combines black metal violence with choral and symphonic elements. The shifting parts feel theatrical without losing focus. It is both aggressive and melancholic, finishing the EP on a grand note.

"V Empire Or Dark Faerytales In Phallustein" is a key release in Cradle Of Filth’s early years. It acts as a bridge between their raw beginnings and their more sophisticated later material. The lineup changes and added female vocals pushed the band into new territory. Though born out of legal pressure and internal turmoil, the result is impressive, refined, and highly influential in shaping the band’s future.

This new reissue by Darkness Shall Rise Productions gives new listeners and longtime fans the best possible version of the EP. With proper remastering, updated notes, and high-quality packaging, it honors a release that helped define extreme gothic metal in the 1990s.

Score: 9.0