Overkill
Taking Over

THE REVIEW

Overkill, along with Testament, Exodus, and Forbidden (just to name a few), represent the most important bands of the second wave of American thrash metal. These four "metalheads" released their first work, "Feel the Fire," in 1985, a seminal and significant album for the thrash movement. Two years later, they returned with a new full-length, "Taking Over," with the same lineup as the previous album: Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth on vocals, Bobby Gustafson on guitar (pulling double duty), D.D. Verni on bass, and Rat Skates behind the drums.

This album is even rougher and more powerful than its predecessor, as evidenced by the riffs that introduce the opener "Deny the Cross," which boasts an incredible instrumental section and an excellent chorus. But the best is yet to come, and "Wrecking Crew" strikes the unsuspecting listener with simple and clever riffs that are heavy and fast at the same time, and it's no coincidence that it becomes one of the most performed tracks in their live shows. Another classic of the band is "Use Your Head," with a well-defined rhythm marked by numerous tempo changes and a noteworthy solo by Gustafson. And now for the best track on the album (in my opinion), a true classic of the band that has been featured in every live show from 1987 to today, we are talking about "In Union We Stand," where Ellsworth's raspy voice engages you throughout the song. Another notable track is the super-fast "Electro-Violence," filled with numerous solos that hit you straight in the face without giving you a moment's respite.

This "Taking Over," along with Testament's "The Legacy" and Anthrax's "Among the Living," makes a great 1987 thrash metal trio. A bonus point is also given to the very explicit cover art that makes it clear that this album is a real blast in the balls.