Mystic Circle

Mystic Circle emerged toward the close of 1992 in Ludwigshafen as one of Germany's leading acts devoted exclusively to black metal, founded by bassist and vocalist Graf von Beelzebub alongside drummer Aaarrrgon. Their initial recordings consisted of three demo tapes, beginning with Dark Passion in 1993, which gradually circulated the group's satanic themes throughout the domestic underground scene over subsequent years. A trio of 1996 EPs, including one shared with Blood, paved the way for the band's first full-length release, 1997's Morgenroete-der Schrei Nach Finsternis, which also incorporated guitar work from Mephisto and Agamidion. Those two guitarists soon departed, making room for Isternos and Ezpharess, while Baalsulgorr joined on keyboards to help shape the 1998 concept album Drachenblut that marked Mystic Circle's breakthrough across Europe. The group then embarked on extensive tours alongside Marduk and Old Man's Child, and following prominent festival slots they captured what many regard as their defining statement, 1999's Infernal Satanic Verses. Guest vocals from Sarah Jezebel Diva appeared on that record, which brought the band's expansive symphonic black metal style to full fruition. Aaarrrgon's exit shortly afterward presented a serious challenge, compelling the remaining members to rely on a drum machine for much of the following tour until Raziel arrived as a live replacement and participated in the recording of 2001's The Great Beast. Isternos left soon after that album, prompting the addition of Necrodaemon on drums in 2002.