The beginnings of Exmortus can be traced back to a dusty garage in a southeast suburb of Los Angeles, California, United States in early 2002. Formed by Jadran (lead guitar) and Mario (drums), two cousins with a passion for true heavy metal and thrash, Exmortus quickly took shape and began playing their first shows that same year. With influences ranging from Iron Maiden, Judas Priest and Slayer, Exmortus immediately stood out amongst the local Whittier, CA scene, which consisted mostly of nu metal and metalcore bands.