British extreme metal mainstays Cradle of Filth find themselves navigating a stormy period marked by sudden member departures, emotional public statements, and internal friction, all unfolding during the rollout of their latest album and ongoing world tour.
Album Release Amid Growth and Change
- The band launched their fourteenth studio album, The Screaming of the Valkyries, on March 21, 2025, via Napalm Records. It features new members Donny Burbage (guitar) and Zoe Marie Federoff (keyboards, vocals), while guitarist Marek “Ashok” Šmerda makes his final appearance.
- Frontman Dani Filth described the album as their “next stage of evolutionary sound,” blending classic and modern elements with theatrical intensity.
Mid-Tour Departures Spur Public Fallout
- Zoe Marie Federoff abruptly exited mid-tour in South America, initially citing “personal reasons.” She later clarified that she and her husband, Ashok, had already planned their departure and denied rumors about personal infidelity.
- Marek “Ashok” Šmerda confirmed his intention to leave at tour’s end, citing “low pay,” “stress,” and unprofessional treatment by band leadership. He also requested removal of his contributions—including from a forthcoming Ed Sheeran collaboration.
- Tensions escalated when Cradle of Filth officially fired Ashok before the tour concluded. Frontman Dani Filth urged fans to disregard “false speculations,” promising to continue performances with a single guitarist until a replacement arrives.
Ongoing Challenges and Reputation at Risk
- These departures have thrust Cradle of Filth into an unprecedented public reckoning. Fans and media scrutinize now-public statements describing hostile working environments, financial exploitation, and emotional strain.
- In the absence of key members, the band pressed on with their Latin American tour, supported by temporary vocalist/keyboardist Kelsey Peters, while the future of planned collaborations remains uncertain.
Band Enables Forward Momentum
- Despite turbulence, Dani Filth affirmed on the band’s official channels that Cradle of Filth would continue touring and deliver on upcoming dates in Europe and beyond, promising fans a renewed focus and clarity moving forward.
Sources: Cradle of Filth (Official), Blabbermouth.net, Loudwire, Consequence, Metal Injection, Dark Divas, Bluntmag, BraveWords, and WikiPedia.
