Greek thrash metal/death metal band Cremate are back with a new EP titled Ready To Fight. The four-track release captures the band’s old-school fire with a modern touch, marking their first new material since reforming in 2021. The EP blends vintage aggression with updated production and a darker sound that keeps their classic energy alive.
Reviewing Cremate’s Edgy “Ready To Fight”
Ready To Fight is a powerful and sharp comeback from the Athens-based death/thrash veterans. Released through Wormholedeath Records, the EP is a short but intense listen that shows Cremate’s renewed energy while respecting their early roots.
The record opens with “Die As You Lived”, a reimagined version of a track from their early catalog. This new take keeps the raw attitude of the original but adds more atmosphere and a stronger production. The guitars hit harder, the drums are tighter, and the haunting violin from Lusty Apricot gives the song a dramatic and emotional layer rarely heard in thrash metal. It’s a bold opener that mixes brutality and melody in just the right way.
Next comes “Human”, a reworked version of the old track Another Pain Born. The new version feels darker and heavier, with a thicker guitar tone and deeper vocals that make it sound more mature and confident. The song balances fast-paced thrash sections with slower, groove-driven parts that let the riffs breathe. Lyrically, it deals with struggle and rebirth — fitting for a band returning after decades away.
The third track, “Cerebral Pain,” keeps the momentum going with pure, aggressive thrash energy. It’s probably the most straightforward song on the EP — fast, sharp, and relentless. The riffs bring back that early ’90s vibe, but the sound is updated with modern production that adds more weight and clarity. The drumming from The Goat drives the track forward with steady precision, keeping the aggression tight from start to finish.
The title track, “Ready To Fight,” closes the EP with a bang. Featuring a guest guitar solo by Marios Iliopoulos of Nightrage, this song combines technical playing with raw emotion. The solo is fiery and melodic, giving the track a big finish that sums up the whole EP’s message — strength, survival, and the will to keep pushing forward. It’s both a statement and a farewell to their long journey.
The EP was recorded and mixed by Akis Pastras and mastered by George Nerantzis, who has worked with names like Abbath, Rotting Christ, and Gus G. The result is a clean yet heavy production that keeps the grit and power of the old school sound while making it fit perfectly for today’s metal standards.
Overall, Ready To Fight is more than just a comeback — it’s a reminder of why Cremate mattered in the first place. The songs are tight, honest, and full of energy. Fans of death and thrash metal who appreciate music that stays true to its roots while still evolving will find a lot to enjoy here.
About Cremate
Cremate was formed in 1991 in Alimos, Athens, by high school friends Christos (vocals/guitar) and Leonidas (drums). Influenced by bands like Kreator, Sodom, and early Sepultura, they quickly made a name in Greece’s underground scene with their fast, raw, and aggressive sound. Their 1993 demo End of Time gained strong underground attention worldwide, followed by their 7″ EP Enchanting Black Recess in 1995.
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Although the band split soon after, their influence never fully disappeared. In 2021, founder Christos brought Cremate back with drummer George and guitarist Akis Pastras (known from Dexter Ward, Nightfall, and Damon Systema). This new lineup revisited and reshaped their early material, giving it a new life with modern elements like samples and dark synth textures that enrich their signature death/thrash foundation.
Current lineup:
Chris C – Vocals/Bass
Akis Pastras – Rhythm/Lead Guitars
The Goat – Drums
For more information about the band’s upcoming project, follow them at:
www.instagram.com/crematetheband
www.facebook.com/crematetheband
Check out the official music video for Cremate’s “Ready to Fight”:
