Yes, it was truly a survival of the fittest to get in that night. I wasn`t the only one dressed in black, feeling and understanding the meaning of horrific doomed fairytales. There were a lot of beautiful girls and boys (what`s the difference anyway?) haunting their way towards stage. And after making enough enemies I found myself a decent spot to enjoy Dani and his soul(less)mates.

They started of with "Death Magick for Adepts" taken from CoF`s new Masterpiece "Midian". And I was happy to notice that this song wasn`t the only one of the last album I was able to enjoy live. Also my favourite songs "Lord abortion" and the beautiful "Her ghost in the fog" and "Saffron`s curse" were some of new material they played. I noticed that lots of people in the audience already knew "Midian" by heart, but secretly they wouldn`t be satisfied before Cradle would play their "classics" as well. And yes indeed, songs like "Dusk and her embrace", "The principle of evil made flesh" and "The forest whispers my name" got enormous response. It was like the area got filled by a gorgeous energy overdose, one moment we were all alone with everybody.

The thing I really loved about the concert was the interaction between the band and the crowd. They weren`t just doing their songs but seem to be fully aware of the fact that people like to see more than just a show that`s technically perfect. Besides a fascinating light show, Dani spoke or better to be said grunted (a pity `cause I adore his British accent), his announcements of the songs, introduced the other members of the band and did some chit-chat as well.

Okay, I admit you won`t hear me complaining, I have nothing against watching Dani all night. But this time all the boys (and girls) got kind of an "extra" show by two barely dressed, well shaped ladies. The girls started with just moving around in interesting underwear but finally got their own moment of fame: making themselves really comfortable by doing a lesbian act. Yeah sure, they even got some red wine with it to make their kisses, and whatever they were doing, sweeter. Something you would like to share? Well, the spit the red wine straight into the audience (but as a matter of fact it landed directly on the security people). I would love to have those girls` job!!

The last (and first) time I saw CoF was at the Dynamo festival, two years ago. I did like their show but seeing them now at 013 was something completely different. This truly gave me the shivers……you just have to see them in the dark!

If you weren`t there, I do recommend you will be next time. No, you don`t have to be afraid, it`s nothing more than a cradle of fear…

(Review: Cyn Nederpel
Pics: Xander Hoose)