Overkill

About

Overkill: The name alone evokes a primal, unapologetic intensity, and for over four decades, the New Jersey thrash metal veterans have delivered precisely that. Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth's signature snarl and D.D. Verni's thunderous bass have anchored a sound that's as brutal as it is undeniably infectious. Overkill isn't just thrash; it's a potent blend of punk rock aggression, classic heavy metal swagger, and a distinctly New York/New Jersey working-class grit. Formed in 1980, Overkill carved their niche in the burgeoning thrash scene alongside titans like Metallica and Slayer. Their early albums, including "Feel the Fire" and "Taking Over," solidified their place as genre innovators. While other bands chased trends, Overkill remained steadfast, churning out a consistent stream of high-energy albums. The 90s saw them experiment with groove metal elements, but they always returned to their thrash roots. Overkill's impact lies in their unwavering commitment to their sound and their incredibly loyal fanbase. They've toured relentlessly, sharing stages with countless metal acts and becoming a staple of the international metal festival circuit. Never achieving mainstream superstardom, they’ve instead become elder statesmen of thrash, influencing a generation of younger bands. Their dedication to the craft continues; Overkill released their twentieth studio album, "Scorched," in 2023, proving their enduring relevance.