[1] Ov Hell was formed by King ov Hell and Shagrath following the temporary dissolution of God Seed in July 2009, which was formed by King and Gaahl in March that year, following the conclusion of the Gorgoroth name dispute which had started in October 2007.

During this period of activity Gaahl was expected to write lyrics and record vocals for the band's intended debut album, for which at numerous times he was claimed to have been undertaking.

The rest of the album had already been recorded in 2008, with Frost on drums, Teloch and Ice Dale on guitars and King on bass.

However, citing lack of enthusiasm Gaahl quit God Seed at the With Full Force festival and ultimately retired from metal music.

[3][4][5] King then reincorporated the music which was intended for the God Seed debut album into Ov Hell, and Shagrath wrote and recorded the lyrics and vocals.