Milan based Progressive Metal act STYGIAN was initiated by ALICE IN DARKLAND guitarist Andy during February 2000. Vocalist Adry, bassist Dave and a drum machine would be utilised for the opening demo 'Whispering Skull'. Upon completion, NEOPHYTE's Alex enrolled as drummer. Changes to the line up in October of that year saw Ivan assuming the vocal role and subsequently Alex was superseded by Tia of IRA whilst Joe enrolled as rhythm guitarist. In this guise STYGIAN performed at the 'Quintorock' festival in 2001.

STYGIAN morphed once more in October of 2001, introducing new players guitarist Andrew Frederich of ALICE IN DARKLAND and a return for Alex on the drums. With Ivan's departure in March of 2002 Barto took on vocal duties, debuting with a gig at the 'Perpetual Moonshine' festival in Milan sharing the stage with NOVEMBRE and NODE. A second demo, billed as 'Oniromantic', was recorded in December at Massive Arts Studios. Studio guests included Tanathos of REBIRTH on keyboards and Alberto from ALICE IN DARKLAND on backing vocals. The group then appeared at the second 'Perpetual Moonshine' event, this time alongside THY MAJESTY and VISION DIVINE.

STYGIAN evolved yet again though, this time welcoming in Alessandro 'Rullo' Durini of EMPTYMIST onto the drums. Further fluxes found second guitarist Andrew Frederich exiting. The Summer of 2003 witnessed the re-introduction of Tia to man the drums as Rullo joined ALICE IN DARKLAND. Durini joined SILENCE in 2004.