Interview with Horror Illogium
Introducing Portal
Portal was established in Brisbane in 1994.
Early influences include Beherit, Immolation, Masters Hammer, Mystifier etc.
The Curator - Equivocals - Aquarius
Horror Illogium - 8 String Dimension - Scorpio
Aphotic Mote - 8 String Cacophony - Leo
Ignis Fatuus - Battery - Capricorn
Omenous Fugue - Bass Infusion - Cancer
How did you come about obtaining the band name?
At the time it described exactly the purpose of the music and the end result, where abominations are hatched and sprung forth to and fro.
How would you describe your music to someone who has never heard you before?
Atmospheric, Claustrophobic, Horror Worshipping Death Metal.
If I were to ask one of your closest relatives what they think about your band, how do you think they would describe it?
Intelligent and abrasive noise.
What one thing do you feel sets you apart from the rest in this genre?
The crushing atmosphere and our somewhat absurd themes.
How long did it take to record your latest material? And is there any particular message you are trying to relay to your audience with this album?
We have recently been recording a new album and so far we have spent two months recording on a weekend basis. Various messages dealing with the inner mental maze work and outer dimensions and abominations of ill regard.
Which label, if any, have you produced this album through? Do you think record companies actually make the recording process any easier?
All of our albums have been released by Profound Lore Records for the US. We also use Invictus Productions for Europe. We record everything ourselves, so the record company has nothing to do with our end result.
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RELEASES:
SEEPIA - 2003
OUTRE - 2007
SWARTH - 2009
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What kind of costs were you expecting when you started recording and how much did it differ to your original expectations?
We are always updating recording equipment, pre amps, mics etc, but the real cost goes into new amps and drum wares really. Nothing unexpected.
Any plans for a music video? And, if applicable, which is your favourite video thus far?
We have so far made a video for the song Larvae from the album Swarth. We also made this ourselves. We filmed inside a mental asylum which has been abandoned for decades.
When you go into recording mode, do you find it easy or challenging?
Personally I find the process very fulfilling, to see a creation take form after a few years of working on the music itself. The challenge depends on the complexity of the arrangements.
Who’s responsible for the bands artwork?
We discuss the ideas and design and then give that to whoever we are working with at the time to execute it. The constant has been our graphic artist Chimere Noire in Montreal. He takes all of the art that we have created with various artists and transforms them into layout. The art always corresponds to our music, lyrics and themes.
How hard has it been to get to this point?
Portal has a life of its own. All progression has been very natural to this point.
Where does your main fan base / support tend to lie?
Definitely in the U.S., mainly due to great distribution and press that we have had for years, Europe has begun this process also due to our involvement with Invictus Productions. We would actually like to explore more of the U.S. and return to places like Portland specifically; however we have our sights set on other lands.
What are some of your favourite Australian acts? And have you had the chance to play alongside them?
Gospel Of The Horns, Innsmouth, Stargazer, Cauldron Black Ram and Assaulter and yes we have played alongside them.
After a live performance do you tend to go and hang out with the fans or do you prefer to keep to yourself?
We tend to enjoy the company of friends that we have in that area, nothing particularly interesting except alcohol abuse etc.
What would be your most memorable gig / performance to date?
Brooklyn with Gorguts and Krallice.
Have you got a favourite song you like to play? And is there one in particular your fans seem to prefer?
My favourite song to play live is Sourlows. I believe the onlookers enjoy Glumurphonel or Black Houses.
If you created your own metal festival, who would you prefer was playing alongside you and where would that be?
Judas Priest, Voivod, Bestial Warlust, Masters Hammer and Beherit in the Siberian Desert.
What kind of instruments do you use?
We have no endorsements and the only exception is that we use eight string guitars.
What have been some of the more bizarre signings you’ve had?
A human skull. Although, that is not really bizarre with crowds that we attract.
Have you ever had any Mystical experiences?
Only visions in-between sleep and the waking world. Usually pertaining to some giant insect forms.
Let’s pretend you were creating a tour survival guide. What would be your top three tips for surviving a long tour with the band?
Have a strategy. Embrace Chaos. Worship Death.
What words of advice can you offer anyone looking to enter the music industry?
Art for personal satisfaction only.
Anything you'd like to add or say to your fans?
See you on one of the other sides.
LINKS
Portal Website
Portal Facebook
Buy Portal
‘Interview with Portal’ by Déa di Morté © 27 October 2011
Hails! to Horror Illogium for agreeing to participate and taking the time to complete this interview
All pictures courtesy of Portal