Raw and foaming at the mouth as they continuously hone their talent, A Portrait of Mortality, channels the fury and fear of some of rock's heaviest hitters with some of cinema's terror titans. The results are kick to the gut, morosely-crafted merciless songs.
APOM recently sat down for a face to face interview with Suite101 to discuss summer plans and describe their live shows.
Omaha Death Metal
Just knowing that this five-piece outfit of Omaha, Neb., is still in high school bends the imaginary line between street credit and maturity.
"With our music, we try to convey a sense of realization to our listeners," Collin, Vox, says. "One of our main points we try to express would be that there's an inevitable end to everything, including life. Society today makes everyone feel safe and to a certain point, invincible. So with this, we hope to portray the fact that everyone and everything is moral, and will end."
The beginnings of APOM stem from a common affliction for the fast-moving, thrashing sounds of Slayer, Impending Doom, Rose Funeral, Suicide Silence, as well as the storied murderous past of England's Jack the Ripper and the unsolved case of the Black Dahlia Murder.
Most of the band members met after a mutual admiration for Slayer during an art class at Westside High School. Now, practicing several times a week and working towards gigs are their major goals. That and finishing their full length album.
"Our first gig we were really scared," drummer Pat says, as guitarist Jake adds, "When I get up there I don't even see the crowd, I just get so into the mood. We have only red lights, we keep it dark, more
intense. We incorporate dialogue from scary movies to get the crowd pumped up."
Chemo and Gutted Standout Songs
APOM has several songs under its belt, but standouts like "Chemo" and "Gutted" slice through any stereotypes that this band doesn't have the guts to challenge audiences. Nor does it mean they are backing down from their own goals.
Their summer tour includes several stops in Nebraska and Iowa towns, as they continue to prepare for a full-length album. Not to mention, their driver's license tests. The band will focus on venues that allow all-ages and look forward to meeting each and every audience member.
"We like to stick around, and really talk to the people that attend our shows," Jake said.
APOM is Collin (vox), Jake (guitar) Ian (guitar), Jesse (bass) and Pat (drums.). Visit www.myspace.com/aportraitofmortalityne.com for sound bites, tour dates and elements.
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