Cradle of Filth guitarist Marek “Ashok” Šmerda is marrying the band's keyboardist and vocalist Zoë M. Federoff.
Federoff joined Cradle of Filth in 2022 following the departure of Annabelle Iratni, while Ashok has been with the symphonic black metal group since 2014. Cradle of Filth is known for creating extreme metal, but the band has gothic/romantic leanings with “love songs”. ” such as “A Gothic Romance (Red Roses for The Devil's Whore)” and “The Dusk and Its Embrace.”
Federoff took instagram to share the news of her engagement to the guitarist:
“Happy new year from Šmerda and future Šmerda. 2024 will be the last year the name 'Zoë Federoff' exists. Forever is not enough. #HappyNewYear #WeAlreadyThere.”
Apparently there have been some doubts about the commitment among the band's fans. In a separate follow-up post, Federoff addressed those who have been “speculating and spreading rumors” about the couple and their past and future intentions regarding Cradle of Filth.
Federoff wrote [via Facebook]:
“First of all, thank you all very much for your warm wishes and congratulations. Secondly, I really wish I didn't feel the need to clarify this completely, but there are a lot of strange rumors and stories floating around out there, so take note: I never met Ashok before joining COF. He had nothing to do with me coming on board. I've already written some material for the next COF album, so clearly our commitment has nothing to do with my staying in this band.
“We have no plans to leave COF because we really enjoy working together, not to mention working with several of our closest friends. Dani has been the greatest and most supportive leader possible when it comes to our commitment.
“We remain happily committed to your team at COF.
“Now please stop speculating and spreading rumors and let's celebrate all the good things happening this year!”
Cradle of Filth wrapped up a busy 2023 that saw the band embark on multiple tours with DevilDriver. The group led by Dani Filth also released a live album, The problems and their double lifewhich was selected from concert recordings from 2014 to 2019.
So far, the band has a European tour planned for 2024. The tour begins in February, with tickets available here.
See Federoff's social media posts about his engagement to Šmerda below.
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