"Horrorscope" was an album released by thrash metal band Overkill in 1991. It was their 5th full-length album, and the first to feature the guitar duo of Merritt Gant and Rob Cannavino. Many fans consider Horrorscope to be the one of the bands finest efforts.
This web page has photos of album covers, inner sleeves, record labels together with production details, musicians and track-listing.
In the world of thrash metal, 1991's "Horrorscope" by New Jersey's Overkill stands as a pivotal release. The album marked a turning point for the band, solidifying their sound and cementing their status as East Coast thrash titans.
Historical Context
Emerging in the mid-1980s during thrash metal's heyday, Overkill had already established themselves with a string of aggressive, energetic albums. However, the early '90s saw a shift in the musical landscape. Grunge was on the rise, and thrash was facing an uncertain future. "Horrorscope" arrived at this crossroads, demonstrating that thrash still had plenty of fire left to burn.
Musical Exploration
"Horrorscope" is a relentless sonic assault, showcasing Overkill's signature blend of breakneck speed, intricate riffing, and Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth's distinctive, high-pitched vocals. The album delves into dark, apocalyptic themes, with songs like the title track and "Coma" painting a bleak picture of a world gone mad.
The album also sees the band experimenting with their sound, incorporating elements of groove metal into their thrash attack. Tracks like "Infectious" and "New Machine" feature slower tempos and heavier riffs, adding a new dimension to Overkill's music.
Recording and Production
"Horrorscope" was recorded at the famed Morrisound Recording in Tampa, Florida, a studio known for its work with death metal legends like Death and Morbid Angel. The album's production is raw and powerful, capturing the band's energy and aggression.
The Frontman: Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth
At the heart of Overkill's sound is frontman Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth. His distinctive vocals, a high-pitched snarl, are instantly recognizable. On "Horrorscope," Blitz delivers some of his most impassioned performances, his voice soaring over the band's thunderous instrumentation.
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Music Genre: Speed Thrash Metal |
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Album Production information: The album: "Horrorscope" was produced by: Overkill and Terry Date Terry Date is a renowned American music producer and sound engineer known for shaping the sonic identity of heavy metal and rock. His work with Pantera, Soundgarden, Deftones, and White Zombie set new production standards, blending crushing heaviness with clarity. His influential career spans decades, leaving a lasting impact on modern metal. Read more .
This album was recorded March - April 1991 Carriage House Studios Stamford, Connecticut, USA Marsha Zazula - Producer Marsha Zazula, co-founder of Megaforce Records, played a pivotal role in launching Metallica’s groundbreaking career during the early 1980s. With her sharp eye for talent and passion for heavy metal, she, alongside her husband
Jon
, helped bring Metallica’s debut album Kill ’Em All to life, shaping the thrash metal movement.
Learn more about her impact here.
Matt Lane - Producer, Sound Engineer Terry Date - Sound Engineer, Producer Howie Weinberg - Mastering Engineer Howie Weinberg is a renowned mastering engineer whose work has defined the sound of countless legendary albums. With over 200 Gold and Platinum records, he has mastered classics from Metallica, Nirvana, and Slayer, shaping the sonic landscape of rock and metal. His expertise continues to influence generations of musicians. Learn more in the full biography.
Bob Defrin - Art Direction Bob Defrin invites you to explore his legacy of iconic album artwork — visit his webpage now! Michael Paras - Photographer |
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Record Label & Catalognr: Megaforce Worldwide 7567-82283 |
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Album Packaging: This album includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and photos of the Overkill band-members. |
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Media Format: 12" Vinyl LP Gramophone RecordAlbum weight: 200 gram |
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Year & Country: 1991 Made in EEC |
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Band Members and Musicians on: Overkill Horrorscope |
Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth (realname: Robert Joseph Ellsworth) Lead singer with the American Thrash Metal band Overkill since 1980 D.D. Verni (real-name Carlo Verni) lead singer with Overkill since 1980. Previously (1979-1980) he was in a band called "The Lubricunts" together with "Rat Skates" Sid Falck (real-name: Robert Falck) - Drums, played drums in the band "Battlezone" in 1986, before joining "Overkill" in 1987. He left "Overkill" in 1992. |
Complete Track Listing of: "Horrorscope" |
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The Song/tracks on "Horrorscope" are
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Album Cover Photo Gallery of: Overkill Horrorscope |
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| Photo of "Horrorscope" Album's Back Cover |
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| Photo of Overkill's band members on the inner sleeve |
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Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ). |
"Feel the Fire" by Overkill is a monumental album that marked the emergence of one of the most influential bands in the thrash metal genre. Released in 1985 under the Megaforce Records label, this debut LP propelled Overkill onto the global metal scene, showcasing their raw talent and unrelenting energy.
Feel the Fire 12" Vinyl LP
The year is 1987, and the thrash metal scene is burgeoning with explosive energy and raw aggression. Among the bands spearheading this movement is Overkill, a band that has come to embody the very spirit of East Coast thrash. That same year, Overkill releases the !!!FUCK YOU!!! Records 12" Vinyl EP on Megaforce
!!!Fuck You!!! 12" Vinyl LP
In the world of thrash metal, 1991's "Horrorscope" by New Jersey's Overkill stands as a pivotal release. The album marked a turning point for the band, solidifying their sound and cementing their status as East Coast thrash titans.
Horrorscope 12" Vinyl LP
Released in 1993, "I Hear Black" marked a significant shift in Overkill's musical trajectory. The album, arriving during a time of grunge dominance and waning interest in thrash, saw the band embrace a darker, more experimental sound.
I Hear Black 12" Vinyl LP
Released in 1987, "Taking Over" was Overkill's second studio album and their major label debut on Atlantic Records. The album arrived during the peak of thrash metal's popularity, with bands like Metallica and Slayer dominating the scene.
- Taking Over (1987, Canada) - Taking Over (1987, Germany) - Taking Over (1987, USA)
"Under the Influence" showcases Overkill's signature thrash metal intensity while also incorporating elements of groove and heavy metal. The album is packed with fast tempos, intricate guitar work, and Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth's distinctive high-pitched vocals.
Under the Influence 12" Vinyl LP
"The Years of Decay" showcases Overkill's evolution as a band. The album features a more mature and refined sound compared to their earlier work, with slower tempos, longer song structures, and more complex arrangements. However, the band's trademark intensity and aggression remained intact.
The Years of Decay 12" Vinyl LP
