Altared States have been delivering uncompromising thrash metal since 1990, and more than three decades after first forming, the Wheeling, West Virginia outfit is proving that time has only sharpened their attack. Following their 2019 revival, the band has continued to push forward with heavier, more aggressive material while staying true to the old-school ethos that helped define them. Their latest EP, Last Rites, is a five-song barrage of thrash and progressive heavy metal designed to hit listeners hard from start to finish.
In this exclusive interview with KJAGRadio.com/TheMic, Altared States discuss the return of the band, the making of Last Rites, their dedication to real instruments and authentic performances, and why metal remains more than music—it’s a lifestyle.
Altared States Keep Thrash Alive With Last Rites
By KJAGRadio.com/TheMic
Last Rites has just been unleashed. What does this EP represent for Altared States at this point in your career?
We feel it’s our best release to date. It’s heavy, assertive, and really captures what Altared States is all about right now.
Altared States originally formed in 1990 and returned in 2019. What inspired the comeback?
We missed writing music, collaborating with each other, and playing live. It just felt right to bring the band back.
How has the band’s sound evolved over the years?
We continue to grow individually as players and as a unit. Every release gets heavier and more aggressive.
Was the writing process for Last Rites different from previous releases?
Not really. We stick with what works. There’s no reason to change something that isn’t broken.
Mike Tronka said the EP was intended to “hit hard from beginning to end.” How was that achieved?
Interestingly, the track order follows the same sequence in which the songs were written and recorded. It naturally flowed that way and delivered the impact we wanted.
Is there an overall theme connecting the songs?
The mission was simple: heavy music from top to bottom. No filler, just hard-hitting songs.
Which track best represents Altared States creatively right now?
The title track, “Last Rites.” It’s raw, old-school, and incredibly fun to play.
Were any songs particularly difficult to record?
No. Everything came together naturally.
Why was Aardvark Productions in Steubenville, Ohio, the right place to record?
Dan is a true professional. He listens to your ideas and contributes his own, making the process enjoyable and productive.
Many modern bands rely heavily on technology, but Altared States wanted real instruments and real performances. Why?
We’re old school. We want listeners to hear the authentic sounds we create in the studio.
Thrash metal has experienced a resurgence. Why does the genre continue attracting new fans?
For us, thrash never disappeared. It’s awesome seeing younger fans embrace it and keep it alive.
How much influence did bands like Anthrax, Overkill, and Megadeth have on Last Rites?
They’re all great bands and definitely inspirational, but we never try to copy anyone.
Are there newer bands that impress you?
Mourning High is a really good young thrash band.
What separates Altared States from other bands?
No two songs sound alike. Even when compared to our older material, every track has its own identity.
After all these years, what keeps your passion alive?
Metal isn’t a choice. It’s a passion and a lifestyle.
How has the response been since the band’s return?
It’s been incredible. We’ve received support from all over the world, and we’re grateful for every fan.
What can fans expect from an Altared States live show in 2026?
All-out intensity. Whether there are ten people or a thousand in the crowd, we bring the same energy. We believe we’re even better live.
Which songs from Last Rites are getting the strongest reactions?
“Grey Witch” has really taken off and has been receiving a lot of attention through both audio streams and video.
Any memorable moments from the recording sessions?
Hearing the first playback and thinking, “Man, this is GOOD!”
Does being from Wheeling, West Virginia shape the band’s identity?
Not really. It doesn’t influence the music.
What challenges do independent metal bands face today?
Getting people to hear your music. Exposure remains one of the biggest obstacles.
How do you balance streaming with physical releases?
Streaming is important, but we love physical CDs and albums. Those formats will always be part of what we do.
Looking back, what are you most proud of?
The fans. It’s humbling to have followers from around the world supporting us.
What’s next after Last Rites?
We’ve got plenty of shows lined up and more videos planned from this release. We’ll continue putting out five-song EPs because we believe that’s what today’s music industry wants.
For someone discovering Altared States through Last Rites, what do you hope they take away?
Old-school thrash mixed with aggressive, progressive heavy metal.
BANG IT!
Final Thoughts
With Last Rites, Altared States prove that true thrash metal doesn’t age—it evolves. Fueled by passion rather than trends, the band continues to embrace the raw power and authenticity that first inspired them more than three decades ago. As they prepare for more shows, new videos, and future EPs, one thing is certain: Altared States are far from finished. For longtime metalheads and newcomers alike, Last Rites serves as a reminder that old-school aggression and honest musicianship still hit just as hard today.
For fans of Anthrax, Overkill, Megadeth, and progressive thrash metal, Altared States’ Last Rites is required listening.