Cradle of Filth is a British extreme metal band known for their theatrical style, gothic imagery, and symphonic black metal sound. Formed in 1991 by frontman Dani Filth, the band blends blistering riffs, orchestral elements, and dark, poetic lyrics inspired by horror, mythology, and literature. Albums like Dusk... and Her Embrace (1996) and Cruelty and the Beast (1998) cemented their status as pioneers of symphonic black metal. With a dramatic aesthetic and intense live performances, Cradle of Filth remains one of the most influential and controversial bands in the extreme metal genre.