JADRAN "CONAN" GONZALEZ / EXMORTUS

Exmortus was formed in 2002 in Whittier, Calif., by then-teenage cousins Jadran “Conan” Gonzalez (guitar) and Mario Moreno (drums). Guitarist David Rivera and bassist Phillip Nunez round out the quartet, known for its invigorating twin-guitar mix of neoclassical shred, Bay Area thrash, progressive death and traditional heavy metal.

Influences:

Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Yngwie Malmsteen, Jason Becker, Marty Friedman, Randy Rhoads

Fun Facts:

Conan is also heavily inspired by classical music. One of his favorite composers is Beethoven.

First Concert:

KISS, Farewell Tour

Quotable:

“I love heavy metal mostly because it's appealing to the outcasts and awkward people, like myself. It's for everyone really because it's appealing in many ways. It's aggressive. It can also be dynamic, highly expressive, emotional and passionate so it's very appealing to people who are really into the art and can get really deep into certain subjects." - Conan

Conan on His Gear:

“Jackson guitars struck me as fucking awesome and ideal for shred. My first Jackson was a Dinky, and then I got a Randy Rhoads V from my dad. It flew off our truck and was gone for good. Saddest part of my life, but I got some more to make up for it. Now I have a Jackson Pro RR and it kicks ass.”