Halmstad Black Metal band created in 1992, issuing two demos that same year. Vocalist 'Unholy Pope' (real name Thomas Karlsson and an ex-AUTOPSY TORMENT member) and bassist 'Black Agony' (real name Adrian Letelier) joined TRISTITIA after the 1993 'Hail Victory!' single release.

PAGAN RITES were still a going concern in 2000 but surviving through constant line up ructions. The band, now fronted by Karlsson now billing himself Devil Lee Rot, pulled in guitarist Angerboder of THE ANCIENTS REBIRTH and NIFELHEIM bassist Tyrant. Drummer Sexual Goatlicker would decamp with haste necessitating the recruitment of another NIFELHEIM man Hellbutcher.

PAGAN RITES 2003 album 'The Mark Of The Devil' saw issue on CD format through Primitive Arts Records and vinyl pressings via Iron Pegasus.