OverKill - I Hear Black 12" Vinyl LP Album

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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.

High Resolution Photo of OverKill I Hear Black

"I Hear Black": A Dark Departure
Album Description

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.

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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.

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Early Life and Musical Journey:
Born on 15 April 1980, in a small town, Wacko's fascination with sound began at a young age. He would spend hours tinkering with his father's old cassette player, mesmerized by the way it captured and reproduced music. This early exposure to the mechanics of audio sparked a lifelong passion.

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:
Wacko's thirst for knowledge led him to enroll in a prestigious audio engineering program at a renowned university. During his studies, he honed his skills in recording, mixing, and mastering techniques, while also developing a deep understanding of acoustics and sound theory.

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:
After completing his formal education, Wacko embarked on a journey to establish himself as a sound engineer. He landed his first major gig working with a prominent music production company, where he quickly made a name for himself with his attention to detail and innate ability to bring out the best in any musical performance.

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:
Wacko's career continued to flourish as he collaborated with a diverse range of artists and bands, both in the studio and on tour. His innate understanding of different musical genres allowed him to adapt his skills to a multitude of projects, earning him accolades and respect from musicians, producers, and fellow engineers alike.

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:
Throughout his career, Wacko has remained committed to pushing the envelope of sound engineering, constantly seeking new ways to enhance the listener's experience. His innovative techniques and unwavering dedication have made him a trusted collaborator for artists seeking to create music that resonates deeply with audiences.

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.

 

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 Record
Album weight: 200 gram 

Year & Country:

1993 Made in EEC
Band Members and Musicians on: OverKill I Hear Black
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • D.D. Verni Bass
  • Bobby Blitz Ellsworth Vocals
  • Merrit Gant Guitars
  • Rob Cannavino Guitars
  • Tim Mallare Drums

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

  • Dreaming in Columbian 4:00
  • I Hear Black 5:37
  • World Of Hurt 5:19
  • Feed My Head 5:36
  • Shades of Grey 5:19
  • Spiritual Void 5:13
  • Ghost Dance 1:46
  • Weight of the World 4:07
  • Ignorance and Innocence 5:00
  • Undying 5:25
  • Just Like You 4:13
Album cover photos of : OverKill I Hear Black

High Resolution Photo of OverKill I Hear Black  

 

High Resolution Photo of OverKill I Hear Black  

 

High Resolution Photo of OverKill I Hear Black  

 

 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 ).

Thrashing Through the Decade: OVERKILL's 80s Discography and Impact on Heavy Metal"
OVERKILL - Feel the Fire
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"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.

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OVERKILL - !!!Fuck You!!!
OVERKILL - !!!Fuck You!!!  album front cover vinyl record

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
OVERKILL - Horrorscope
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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.

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OVERKILL - I Hear Black
OVERKILL - I Hear Black  album front cover vinyl record

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
OVERKILL - Taking Over (International Releases)
OVERKILL - Taking Over (International Releases) album front cover vinyl record

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)
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OVERKILL - Under the Influence album front cover vinyl record

"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
OVERKILL - The Years of Decay
OVERKILL - The Years of Decay album front cover vinyl record

"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.

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