Hellhammer

The Profile

Hellhammer were a Swiss extreme metal band formed in 1982. They recorded three influential 1983 demos and released the EP Apocalyptic Raids in 1984 before disbanding; members Tom G. Warrior and Martin Eric Ain then formed Celtic Frost. The demos were later compiled as Demon Entrails (2008).

Swiss pioneers of early black metal; active 1982–1984; known for the 1983 demos (Death Fiend, Triumph of Death, Satanic Rites) and the 1984 EP Apocalyptic Raids; key members later founded Celtic Frost; demos compiled as Demon Entrails (2008).

Two DeBaser reviews trace Hellhammer’s brief but seismic run: the 1983 demos gathered on Demon Entrails and the 1984 EP Apocalyptic Raids. Expect raw, noisy, and feral proto–black metal that pushed beyond early thrash. The pieces underline the band’s underground impact and their role as a springboard to Celtic Frost.