ARS MACABRA gave an ominous signal of intent with the 'Iter in Obscuritate Mentis' self financed promotion album issued in 1999. The group had been conceived a year earlier at the hand of guitarist Sathor and bassist Nero Baratro. Lead vocalist Azrael and drummer Abyss completed the group line up. However, the band unit subsequently trimmed itself down to the founding duo.

Upon completion of the debut album 'Daemonolatria Hypnotica' in 2001 ARS MACABRA underwent a radical member overhaul, inducting new personnel vocalist Myst, guitarist Tehor and Carnag_744 on drums.