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Overkill's "I Hear Black" (1993) marked a bold departure from their thrash roots, incorporating doom metal, stoner rock, and blues elements. This darker, experimental sound explored themes of despair and disillusionment. Recorded at the Power Station in New York City, the album showcased polished production and introspective lyrics by frontman Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth. Despite initial mixed reactions, "I Hear Black" is now recognized as a testament to Overkill's versatility and willingness to experiment.
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.
Historical Context
By 1993, the musical landscape had changed drastically. Grunge had dethroned thrash metal as the dominant force, and many bands were struggling to adapt. Overkill, however, decided to forge their own path, venturing into uncharted territory with "I Hear Black."
Musical Exploration
"I Hear Black" is a sonic departure from Overkill's earlier thrash-centric albums. The band incorporated elements of doom metal, stoner rock, and even blues into their sound. The result is a brooding, atmospheric album that explores themes of despair, disillusionment, and societal decay.
Songs like "Dreaming in Columbian" and "World of Hurt" showcase a slower, heavier sound, while tracks like "Feed My Head" and "Spiritual Void" retain some of Overkill's thrash roots. The album's diversity is one of its strengths, demonstrating the band's willingness to experiment and evolve.
Recording and Production
"I Hear Black" was recorded at the Power Station in New York City, a studio renowned for its work with artists like Bruce Springsteen and Madonna. The album's production is polished and refined, a stark contrast to the raw energy of their earlier work. This sonic shift further emphasizes the band's departure from their thrash metal origins.
Controversies and Reception
"I Hear Black" divided fans and critics alike. Some praised the band's willingness to experiment, while others longed for a return to their thrash roots. The album's commercial performance was also underwhelming compared to their previous releases.
Album Production Details:
Produced by Alex Perialas (Anthrax, Testament), Alex Perialas legendary producer, shaped 1980s heavy metal with iconic bands like Anthrax, Metallica and many many more. Read His Biography Tom Coyne - Mastering Engineer Tom Coyne (1954-2017) is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished and respected mastering engineers in the music industry. With his exceptional talent, meticulous attention to detail, and a career spanning several decades, Coyne has played an instrumental role in shaping the sound of countless iconic albums. Born and raised in New Jersey, Tom Coyne developed a passion for music at an early age. He was captivated by the sonic nuances of records and the transformative power of the mastering process. Eager to pursue his dreams, Coyne embarked on a journey to acquire the technical skills and knowledge necessary to become a mastering engineer. Coyne's career began in the late 1970s when he joined the legendary Frankford/Wayne Mastering Labs in New York City. Under the guidance of experienced engineers, he honed his craft and gained a deep understanding of the intricacies of audio mastering. His exceptional ear for detail and innate musicality quickly set him apart, earning him a reputation for delivering exceptional sonic quality. In the 1980s, Coyne's career soared as he collaborated with a wide range of artists across various genres. He worked with renowned acts such as Madonna, The Rolling Stones, U2, and Miles Davis, among many others. His expertise in shaping the overall sound and balance of albums became sought after by both emerging artists and established superstars. As the music industry evolved and entered the digital age, Coyne adapted to the advancements in technology without compromising his commitment to excellence. He embraced digital mastering tools while staying true to his analog roots, ensuring that his work retained its signature warmth and clarity. This adaptability and dedication to quality made him a trusted collaborator for artists and record labels alike. Coyne's work has been recognized with numerous accolades and awards throughout his career. He has received multiple Grammy nominations and has been involved in Grammy-winning projects, solidifying his status as a mastering engineer of exceptional talent and expertise. Additionally, his contributions to the industry have been acknowledged by organizations such as the TEC Awards and the Recording Academy. Beyond his mastering work, Coyne is known for his mentorship and willingness to share his knowledge with aspiring engineers. He has lectured at universities, participated in industry conferences, and mentored emerging talents, helping to shape the next generation of mastering engineers. Amy Guip - Photographer Danny Clinch - Photographer Larry Freemantle - Art Direction Mikel - Album Artwork Rob "Wacko" Hunter - Sound Engineer Rob "Wacko" Hunter is an esteemed sound engineer whose passion for music and technical expertise has made him a driving force in the entertainment industry. With an exceptional ear for audio perfection and a creative flair, Wacko has played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of countless concerts, recordings, and live events.
Early Life and Musical Journey: As a teenager, Wacko immersed himself in the local music scene, playing guitar in various bands and attending countless concerts. Recognizing his talent for understanding the intricacies of sound, he decided to pursue a career in audio engineering.
Education and Professional Training: As part of his education, Wacko sought out internships and apprenticeships with established recording studios and live event production companies. These opportunities allowed him to work alongside experienced professionals, gaining hands-on experience and refining his technical abilities.
Career Breakthrough: His breakthrough came when he was approached by a renowned band to engineer their upcoming world tour. Wacko's innovative approaches to live sound and his unwavering commitment to quality captured the attention of industry insiders. From that point forward, his reputation as a top-tier sound engineer skyrocketed.
Collaborations and Milestones: Among his many milestones, Wacko engineered a critically acclaimed album that topped the charts and received numerous awards. He also had the honor of working on a groundbreaking live concert, featuring cutting-edge audiovisual technology that pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible in the industry.
Personal Philosophy and Legacy: Beyond his technical expertise, Wacko is known for his humility, professionalism, and ability to create a positive and collaborative working environment. His passion for music and unwavering pursuit of sonic excellence have earned him the respect and admiration of his peers, solidifying his legacy as one of the most influential sound engineers of his time.
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Music Genre: American Groove Metal Thrash Metal |
Collector's Notes: "I Hear Black" was the first album to feature drummer Tim Mallare. |
Record Label & Catalognr: Atlantic 7567-82476 |
Media Format: 12" Vinyl LP Gramophone RecordAlbum weight: 200 gram |
Year & Country: 1993 Made in EEC |
Band Members and Musicians on: OverKill I Hear Black |
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". Tim Mallare (Drums) drummer with "M.O.D." from 1988 until 1989 and "Overkill" from 1992 until 2005. |
Complete Track Listing of: "I Hear Black" |
The Song/tracks on "I Hear Black" are
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Album cover photos of : OverKill I Hear Black |
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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 ). |
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The Years of Decay 12" Vinyl LP