Although the story of Azaghal starts in Finland in 1995, it begins with the band under a different name, and as a band without a vocalist. Convened that year by guitarist Narqath and drummer Kalma, Azaghal went by the name Belfegor. A change was made thanks to the knowledge that a metal outfit named Belphegor existed in Austria -- so in 1997 Azaghal were christened. Along with the name change came vocals, in the guise of Varjoherra. The black metal trio went right to work, recording their first demo that same year. More demos followed, as well as an Aftermath-released EP (Harmagedon). The summer of 1999 would see the first full-length release from Azaghal, entitled Mustamaa. The initial release was a vinyl-only limited run, but later ISO666 would pick up the option to the record and re-release it on CD. Later that same year, Azaghal recorded their second album, Helvetin Yhdeksan Piiria. Issued in December, the album was followed by a pair of splits in 2000. During 2001 the band increased in number again -- adding lead guitarist JL Nokturnal -- and recorded yet another full-length, this one entitled Of Beasts and Vultures.
