Leaving behind the more melodic tones of their first band SANGUIS, frontman Aries and drummer Svart formed HELLSAW in 2002 in the Austrian region of Styria. With Aries taking on the triple role of vocalist, bassist and guitarist, the duo drew on the Black Metal bands of the early 90’s for their inspiration and combined that raw, powerful sound with their own ideas to create an icy and uncompromising atmosphere which first saw the light of day release in HELLSAW’s debut release “Sins of Might”.
Encouraged by the positive feedback to “Sins of Might”, the band began working on their first full length album entitled “Spiritual Twilight”, which was released in 2005 and established the band as serious contenders in the field of Black Metal. However, it was clear that HELLSAW needed to expand their horizons, and, with a lineup that included session musicians, the band played extensively throughout Europe both on tours and at festivals, garnering praise and new fans wherever they appeared.
2007 brought the band an offer to join the “Flesh for Satan Tour” which was headlined by the legendary INQUISITION. Despite the extensive touring this required, the band was still able to write new songs for their second album and “Phantasm” was released on Folter Records, further enhancing the HELLSAW’s standing by showcasing the obvious progress and maturity the band had developed since their first release.
A European tour with SHINING and SKITLIV followed, and it became apparent that if HELLSAW was to progress further, full-time, dedicated musicians would be essential, and guitarists Malthus and Isiul, together with bassist Desderoth were added to the line up on a permanent basis. Having secured a deal with Napalm Records, work began on the third full length album, “Cold”, under the supervision of V Santura (DARK FORTRESS, TRIPTYKON, ex-CELTIC FROST). "Cold" undoubtedly represented yet another milestone in HELLSAW’s progress with frontman Aries’ pitch black vocals dominating the wall of infernal drumming, frigid guitar riffs, and ice-cold melodies.
With more live appearances under their belts, and the addition of drummer Neuroticon to replace the outgoing Svart, HELLSAW have continued their relentless rise through the ranks of today’s generation of Black Metal bands. Their powerful and confident stage performances have made HELLSAW a favourite with Festival audiences as their appearances at Wacken and Party.San can attest, and the band have made use of their time since the release of “Cold” to hone their skills as writers and musicians.
From its very inception it was obvious that HELLSAW was never going to be one of the run of the mill bands that abound on the Black Metal scene. The use of instantly recognizable melodies which stay firmly in your memory, coupled with a respect and understanding of what it really takes to make a good Black Metal band and a sound that is unmistakably theirs, sets HELLSAW head and shoulders above the herd. Add to this the inexorable progress of the individual band members as writers, musicians and performers and you have not only a band that wants to succeed, but a band that is destined to succeed. And if you want more proof, then the new album “Trist”, due out on Napalm Records next year, will give you all the proof you need.