6/10

Peaceville Records | 12.11.12

For a Cradle of Filth album, The Manticore and Other Horrors starts fairly tamely, an eerie soundscape sets the tone for the metallers’ 10th studio album. While many disregard The Filth (as they are affectionately known) as purveyors of a breed of metal that shouldn’t be taken seriously, Manticore goes at least some way towards proving otherwise. Yes, Dani Filth’s scattered, high-pitched screams can be a little cheesy and predictable, but 10 albums in, Cradle of Filth must be doing something right.

Melodrama has always played a large part in Cradle of Filth’s music, concept albums based on serial killers and song names such as this album’s closer, “Sinfonia” can put some people off; however, this album may be their most accessible yet. Punk-style drums elevate the track “For Your Vulgar Delecation” above some of their back catalogue, and the dynamics of the highlight, “The Abhorrent” recall Iron Maiden, and nobody would laugh at them for pursuing this sound.

In short, Manticore is an effective if less than groundbreaking summary of The Filth’s work to date, while updating their usual sound by incorporating elements of newer post-hardcore and metalcore. Fans will eat this up, and open-minded new listeners may find equal enjoyment.

Oli Richards