CREMATORY "Best Of (Special Edition)" is available as limited triple CD in a lush digipak.
CREMATORY are a seminal German metal band formed in 1991 in Mannheim, Baden-Württemberg. Over more than three decades, they have remained one of the most influential acts in European gothic metal, evolving from their early death metal roots into an atmospheric, industrial-touched gothic metal sound that blends heavy riffs, keyboards, and contrasting vocal styles.
From their beginnings, CREMATORY attracted attention with intense live shows and a tour presence alongside scene leaders, merging the aggression of death metal with melodic and haunting elements. Early albums showcased their versatility, while later works expanded into industrial textures without losing emotional weight or heaviness.
Throughout their career, the band has explored themes of life, pain, introspection, ritual, and atmosphere, often combining deep growls with clean vocals and melodic keyboards to craft a sound both powerful and haunting. Their growth in the 1990s earned them recognition across Europe, with frequent festival appearances and strong support from fans of gothic and melodic metal alike.
CREMATORY went through a brief hiatus in the early 2000s but returned stronger, continuing to release acclaimed albums and maintain an active touring schedule. Their resilience over more than 30 years places them among the longest-running and most respected bands in their genre.
With a prolific catalog that spans multiple languages, CREMATORY have frequently recorded songs in both English and German, reflecting their diverse influences and deep connection to both lyrical traditions. This bilingual approach has broadened their appeal while remaining true to their roots.
"English Hymns & Deutsche Hymnen" - releasing May 15, 2026 - is a celebration of this dual identity. The three-CD format unites key English and German works alongside the band’s earliest demo, providing fans with both a retrospective and a new way to engage with CREMATORY’s past. The limited double vinyl editions, presented in neon green and turquoise, pay homage to the visual and sonic diversity that has marked the band’s long career.
CREMATORY’s influence stretches across decades of metal, and this release stands as both a tribute to their legacy and a testament to their ongoing vitality in the gothic metal world.