“Happy Birthday Toronto!”

 

 

British extreme metal act Cradle of Filth rolled into the Phoenix just in time to celebrate Toronto’s 180th Birthday on March 6.  I’ll be honest, I’m not a huge extreme metal fan, but I appreciate the hell out of the spectacle, showmanship and the high level of musicianship that goes into it.  Special props to any drummer that can play double kick at a constant 240 beats per minute for a 90 minute set.    And if you want the best in extreme metal and showmanship you can’t go wrong with a Cradle of Filth show.    The crowd have costumes and makeup that rival the band’s and put KISS fans to shame.   The wave of crowd surfers being launched over the barricade and snaking their way through the crowd to do it again is hypnotizing.   The punishing drums, symphonic synths and operatic backing vocals meld with the guitar shred and vocal screams to really create something that’s almost theatre.   And the fans at the very front look like they’re in the midst of a religious awakening; screaming along to every lyric while their sweat extends their eye make up down their faces.    Metal fans really are the best.  They’re there to experience a connection that only they can explain.  Something that you don’t see at rock, country or pop shows.   They give their blood and sweat and want the same in return.  Cradle of Filth delivered everything they could and their fans loved them for it.  A fitting gift on Toronto’s 180th.

We’ll give this one a 3 out 6ix.