The beginnings of HOLLENTHON date back to 1994, a time of an active Austrian Black Metal Syndicate and an incognito project known as VUZEM. At the urging of A.B.M.S. members, Schirenc anonymously includes two VUZEM tracks on self-produced compilation Norici Obscura Pars.
Following favorable reviews and multiple requests, Schirenc decides to release a full-length recording of VUZEM's music. Other commitments, however, delay the realization of this endeavor until late 1998, when unfinished material is brought to the attention of Napalm Records. Shortly thereafter, VUZEM signs to the label, releasing critically acclaimed debut Domus Mundi in 1999 under the HOLLENTHON banner.
In June 2001, HOLLENTHON releases With Vilest of Worms to Dwell. With Vilest of Worms to Dwell invokes a frightful encounter with a darkly world, where musical overtures mimic the ebb and flow of the tides—at times the excitement of the tempest, at others the tranquil and solemn, yet nevertheless potent, aftermath of its fury. Not unlike its predecessor, it boasts of a superb soundtrack-like production, as well as a fierce and wicked atmosphere created by a perfect symbiosis of heavy guitars, symphonic interludes, thrilling choirs, and bewitching melodies. (To Kingdom Come.mp3)
Bruder Cle of ROCKHARD MAGAZINE fame had this to say about the release:
Honestly, we never thought an album like Domus Mundi could be easily surpassed. How wrong we were! Mastermind Martin Schirenc has outdone himself again and presented us with one of the most convincing Metal discs of this young millennium. It is just plain perfect. Majestic choirs, marvelous melody lines, and orchestral passages are arranged predominantly as fast metal songs that leave bands like Therion lying in the dust. Each of the eight tracks is an ode within itself, striking down the listener with a fatal blow. The album's threatening, dark atmosphere makes it difficult to stay away, and the brilliant, clear production guarantees an additional goose bump factor. The fact that it is also a well thought out concept album becomes almost secondary. Not one shortcoming to be heard in this metallic sound experience and thus, my last words: "pure genius". An absolute must-buy! (Bruder Cle - 04/01)
Source: http://www.hollenthon.com/
