Dani Filth and his disparate degenerates found their footing on album number three. Despite production described as “rubbish” by the band members (an issue corrected on the “Remistressed” edition from 2019), this conceptual piece about the (alleged) depravities committed by Countess Elizabeth Bathory nails the gothic black metal sound, creating an hour-long plunge into sexual sadism and torture as the main character descends into madness. “Cruelty Brought Thee Orchids” remains one of the most chilling monster stories in the genre, and if you’re looking to get arrested play “Venus in Fears” in a public place.

– Jeff Treppel