After several years of active musicianship in local underground bands, bassist Andreas Libera and vocalist Tom Glas recorded two demotapes in 1997 / 98, recordings, though of low sound quality, which should become a solid foundation for further activities. One year later, guitarist Michael Hahn (founder of the German deathmetal act INCUBATOR, experienced musician, played in several bands for over 15 years) and drummer Andreas Pfeifer joined the band, COLD EMBRACE Mk. 1 , the first stable line-up, was born. In winter ´98 / ´99 the band recorded their debut album Ode To Sorrow at Hahns own Rosenquarz recording studio. Low-tuned guitars, slow beats, vocals between deathgrunts and gothic-voices and dreamy melodies were the trademarks on this album, released by Godz Greed-Records in April of ´99. Most reviews following the release were more than just good, best wishes for the future included. At that time, Tom Glas was fired by the band due to his overwhelming personal problems. With Andreas Libera as vocalist / guitarist, joined by a session bassist, COLD EMBRACE toured with CROWBAR in July ´99 and also played a few single gigs throughout Northern Germany.

At the end of 1999 the band took a break due to the members activities in other bands, namely AETERNITAS and INCUBATOR (also bands produced by Hahn and signed by Godz Greed). In July 2000 COLD EMBRACE reformed to record a new song. Again, the recording took place at Rosenquarz, once more showing Hahns ability as a producer. In Doom We Trust, a significant name for a song, which will be featured on their forthcoming album Age Of Doom and also on a label-compilation by Godz Greed. Meanwhile the deal between COLD EMBRACE and Godz Greed has been cancelled, so the band is looking for a new label.

Source: https://web.archive.org/web/20010503125136/http://www.coldembrace.de/