Formed 1991, Montreal (Canada). Calling their style "Northern Hyperblast", Kataklysm's early work is dominated by vocalist Sylvain Houde's characteristic growls and shrieks, as well as his esoteric, mystically influenced lyrics and themes.
After the release of their third album Temple Of Knowledge (Kataklysm Part III) Houde departed and the band shifted gears; utilising an altogether more melodic sound and lacking all mystical elements on the album Victims Of This Fallen World with replacement vocalist (and ex-bass player) Maurizio Iacono's almost hardcore vocal delivery.

Since 2000, the band returned to its Death Metal roots and continues to record in this style.