The Japanese black metal band Gallhammer was formed in Tokyo in February of 2003. In December 2005 they signed a contract with the UK based label Peaceville Records. "Musically inspired by long forgotten U.K. crust bands AXEGRINDER and AMEBIX, but with a heavy dose of modern slime a la AUTOPSY and DARKTHRONE and a nod to CELTIC FROST/HELLHAMMER, this outfit are a breath of stale air in a fresh market.", according to the label's press release.