In an interview with Sonic Perspectives, Cradle of Filth frontman Dani Filth reflected on the complexities of metal fans, describing them as both loyal and often critical.
He pointed out the tendency of fans to be ‘carnivorous’ and ‘cannibalistic’ within the scene while comparing bands. “I think the metal scene is probably one of the most loyal and also one of the most agitated scenes. ‘Oh, that band? I love Arch Enemy.’ ‘Do you? What about In Flames?’ ‘Oh no they’re f*cking sh*t.'”
“So the metal scene is so carnivorous, so cannibalistic, yet probably the most loyal. They wear their hearts on the sleeves they wear their bands on their battle jackets and they’ll go and buy the blood-splattered vinyl or they’ll buy the special edition if there was one,” the singer added.
The Loyalty Behind Collecting Metal Memorabilia
Filth also discussed how metal fans are deeply immersed in the culture, showing their dedication through collecting special edition albums, vinyls, and memorabilia. “The good thing about metal is that it’s quite loyal – people like collecting things. It’s very bitchy, metal – don’t get me wrong. But when somebody does like a band, they really do get immersed in it; they want all the products and the collectable items, so that’s part and parcel of the music industry of the present.”
Even with the sometimes harsh criticisms of bands within the scene, Filth emphasized that when fans are devoted, they go all in, making the market for deluxe editions and collectables strong. “You can’t blame record companies for wanting to this. But nothing goes under the radar with our band. And don’t get me wrong, I’m the first person to say ‘I don’t like this, this is a stupid suggestion’ – we’re not f*cking prostitutes! Everything receives the Cradle of Filth seal of approval, and is of top most quality as well.”
“And at the end of the day, we may offer four variants of the vinyl colour and a box set, aside from the digital platforms and the CD release, but people don’t have to buy them, they’re just there if you want them,” he added.
Cradle of Filth’s 14th studio album, ‘The Screaming Of The Valkyries,’ is set to drop on March 21, 2025, via Napalm Records.
