The d**h metal band Immolation formed in New York in 1986; originally dubbed Rigor Mortis, the group first comprised singer/ba**ist Ross Dolan, guitarists Robert Vignaud and Thomas Wilkinson, and drummer Craig Smilowski. After a series of well-received demos, in 1991 Immolation signed to Roadrunner to issue their debut album, Dawn of Possession; a five-year gap (and a move to Metal Blade) preceded the follow-up, Here in After. With new drummer Alex Hernandez, the band resurfaced in 1999 with Failure for Gods. Close to a World Below was issued a year later. ~ Jason Ankeny, All Music Guide