OVERKILL – Taking Over 12" Vinyl LP Album

- Noise International 1987 Thrash Metal Classic

Album Front Cover Photo of OVERKILL – Taking Over Visit: https://vinyl-records.nl/

Overkill’s 1987 release “Taking Over” stands as one of the defining records of East Coast thrash metal. Produced by Alex Perialas and Jon Zazula, this second album captures the raw ferocity of the band’s early years — with Bobby “Blitz” Ellsworth’s piercing vocals, D.D. Verni’s thunderous bass, and the last appearance of drummer Rat Skates. Released through Noise International, it remains a cornerstone for collectors and fans of the late-80s heavy metal surge.

Table of Contents

"Taking Over (European Pressing)" Album Description:

In the realm of thrash metal, few albums have left as indelible a mark as OVERKILL's "Taking Over". Released in 1987, this second studio album by the American thrash metal band stands as a testament to the raw power and unbridled energy that defined the genre during its golden age. With its impactful music and iconic album cover, "Taking Over" remains a cherished relic for vinyl record collectors, serving as a time capsule that encapsulates the essence of a bygone era of heavy music.

The Album's Arrival and Lineup Changes

"Taking Over" found its sonic home through Megaforce Records, an independent record label renowned for its role in fostering the burgeoning thrash metal scene. This album, released on a 12" LP vinyl, was the last to showcase Rat Skates on drums, as he would soon depart the band. His departure added a layer of poignancy to the album, making it a milestone in the band's evolution.

A Glimpse into the Album's Tracks

The album kicks off with the adrenaline-pumping track "Deny the Cross", setting the tone for what's to come. From blitzing guitar riffs to Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth's distinctive vocals, the album demonstrates a level of intensity that remains unrivaled. Tracks like "Wrecking Crew" and "In Union We Stand" further showcase the band's ability to craft anthems that resonate with fans decades later.

Behind the Scenes: The Creative Forces

"Taking Over" owes much of its sonic brilliance to the collaborative efforts of its creators. The album was produced by Alex Perialas, Overkill themselves, and Jon Zazula. The mastering engineers, Stephen Innocenzi and Tom Coyne, added their expertise to ensure that the album's sound was nothing short of powerful and impactful.

The album's visual aesthetic was equally significant. The photography by Christie Mullen, Ron Akiyama, and Mike Vayenes captured the band's fierce energy and dynamic stage presence. The album artwork, crafted by Daniel Muro and William Benson, remains iconic, reflecting the album's themes of aggression and rebellion.

The Vinyl Experience

For collectors like yourself, the vinyl record serves as a tangible link to the past. The act of holding the album cover, examining the intricate artwork, and carefully placing the needle on the record creates an intimate connection with the music. The warm analog sound of the vinyl enhances the listening experience, providing a visceral and authentic journey into the heart of thrash metal.

Legacy and Impact

"Taking Over" reached #191 on the Billboard 200, a testament to its enduring influence and the dedicated fanbase that OVERKILL has garnered over the years. The album's songs continue to resonate with listeners, both old and new, showcasing the timeless appeal of its unapologetic thrash sound.

Production & Recording Information:

Music Genre:

80s Heavy / Thrash Metal

Combining the aggression and speed of early thrash metal with a heavy 1980s aesthetic, Overkill’s “Taking Over” represents the second wave of East Coast thrash—characterized by galloping riffs, sharp vocals, and relentless rhythm sections that defined the genre.

Producers:
  • Alex Perialas – Producer
    Alex Perialas, a Greek-American producer and sound engineer, is celebrated for shaping 1980s heavy metal with bands like Anthrax, Slayer, and Overkill. As the owner of Pyramid Sound Recording Studio, Ithaca, New York , his work spans genres, influencing pop, hip-hop, and jazz. Discover his legacy and impact on iconic music production here.
  • Overkill – Co-producers
    The band co-produced their second full-length album, maintaining creative control to capture the raw, live intensity that became their trademark. Their involvement ensured that “Taking Over” preserved the energy and authenticity of their legendary stage performances.
  • Jon Zazula – Executive Producer
    Jon Zazula , also known as Jonny Z, revolutionized heavy metal by founding Megaforce Records, the label that launched Metallica, Anthrax, and Testament. A former record store owner turned music mogul, his fearless vision helped shape the thrash metal movement of the 1980s. His legacy continues to influence metal worldwide. Learn more about Jon Zazula .
Mastering Engineers:
  • Stephen Innocenzi – Mastering Engineer
    Stephen Innocenzi was active throughout the 1980s mastering countless metal and hard rock albums. His ability to maintain sonic clarity in aggressive mixes made him a sought-after name among New York studios and labels like Atlantic and Megaforce.
  • Tom Coyne – Mastering Engineer
    Tom Coyne (1954-2017) was a highly respected mastering engineer known for shaping the sound of countless iconic albums. With a career spanning decades, he worked with legends like Madonna, U2, and The Rolling Stones. His mastery of both analog and digital techniques earned him multiple Grammy accolades. Learn more about his legacy here.
Photography:
  • Christie Mullen – Photographer
    Christie Mullen contributed promotional and live photography for various Noise International and Megaforce releases, capturing the raw stage presence of rising thrash acts during the late 1980s metal surge.
  • Ron Akiyama – Photographer
    Ron Akiyama (sometimes credited as “Ron Akiama”) worked with Anthrax, M.O.D., and Overkill. His dynamic use of light and movement made his photos iconic within the East Coast thrash scene.
  • Mike Vayenes – Photographer
    Mike Vayenes was part of Noise International’s regular visual team, contributing band portraits and live shots that emphasized authenticity over polish.
Album Artwork & Design:
  • Daniel Muro – Artwork
    Daniel Muro worked with producer Todd Gordon on numerous heavy metal visuals, designing album sleeves for bands like Overkill and Hades. His work reflected the intense, dark imagery that defined the metal genre during the 1980s.
  • William Benson – Artwork
    William Benson contributed to several Noise International cover projects, specializing in hand-painted art and airbrush design — techniques that gave thrash metal releases their signature power and drama.
Label & Catalognr:

Noise International N 0091 / SPV 08-4422

Media Format:

12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover + Record) Weight: 230 gram

Year & Country:

1987 – Made in Germany

Band Members / Musicians:

Band Line-up:
  • Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth – Lead Vocals
    Robert Joseph Ellsworth, known as "Blitz", is the founding vocalist of Overkill, known for his sharp, high-pitched vocals that defined the band’s thrash sound.
  • Bobby Gustafson – Guitar
    Robert Wayne Gustafson performed all guitars on this album; his precise riffing was instrumental in defining Overkill’s early tone.
  • D.D. Verni – Bass
    Carlo “D.D.” Verni, co-founder and principal songwriter, was previously in “The Lubricunts” (1979–1980) with Rat Skates before forming Overkill.
  • Rat Skates – Drums
    Original drummer of Overkill, active 1980–1987, with a background in punk and hard rock. Later joined Bomb Squad (1990–1993).

Complete Track-listing:

Tracklisting Side One:
  1. Deny The Cross Single
    Released as a promotional single, “Deny The Cross” opens the album with the speed and aggression that defined Overkill’s sound.
  2. Wrecking Crew Single
    One of Overkill’s most recognizable anthems, released as a single and fan favorite, embodying the spirit of 1980s thrash unity.
  3. Fear His Name
  4. Use Your Head
  5. Fatal if Swallowed
Video: Overkill - Wrecking Crew (Live in Sydney) | Moshcam
Tracklisting Side Two:
  1. Powersurge
  2. In Union We Stand Single
    Released as a single, this track became a rallying cry for metal fans worldwide, symbolizing the camaraderie and power of the thrash community.
  3. Electro-Violence
  4. OverKill II (The Nightmare Continues)
Video: Overkill - In Union We Stand (Live in Sydney) | Moshcam
Album Front Cover Photo
High-resolution front cover image of Overkill’s 1987 album 'Taking Over' released by Noise International. The artwork depicts the four band members in a warlike pose, holding rifles pointed toward the viewer under a glowing purple and blue sky. The band's jagged green logo stretches across the top, while the metallic silver title 'Taking Over' appears torn and riveted across the bottom, giving the impression of chaos, rebellion, and power. The scene blends comic-book intensity with 1980s heavy metal bravado.

The album cover for Overkill’s 1987 release “Taking Over” bursts with color, energy, and pure thrash-metal attitude. Against a surreal, purple-and-blue apocalyptic sky, the four band members stand shoulder-to-shoulder, each gripping a weapon and aiming directly at the viewer. Their muscular arms, wild hair, and defiant stances evoke a cinematic sense of aggression — as if they’re storming straight out of the record sleeve.

The band’s logo dominates the top in neon-green lettering, stylized with jagged edges that mirror the raw distortion of their music. Beneath them, the torn and riveted silver album title “Taking Over” looks as though it’s been ripped from metal plating. The background glows with a strange, radioactive light, suggesting chaos and power, while faint flames and rubble fade into the horizon. Every visual element screams rebellion, force, and the unstoppable momentum of 1980s thrash metal.

This cover captures Overkill at their most confident — armed, unrelenting, and visually declaring war through sound and imagery. It’s not just an album cover; it’s a full-blown manifesto of domination from a band ready to take over the metal world.

Album Back Cover Photo
High-resolution image of the back cover of Overkill’s 1987 album 'Taking Over', released by Noise International. The artwork shows a dark black background with four metallic shotgun barrels pointing downward at the top of the frame, creating a menacing visual symmetry. Below them hovers a demonic bat-winged skull rendered in warm copper tones, its mouth open in a sinister snarl. The Overkill logo appears in neon green beneath the creature, with the band lineup, tracklisting, and production credits printed in white text along the sides. The design combines stark minimalism with heavy metal menace, emphasizing aggression and power.

The back cover of Overkill’s 1987 album “Taking Over” exudes a dark, industrial power. Set against a pitch-black background, four gleaming shotgun barrels line the top edge, each angled downward as if aimed directly at the viewer. Their metallic reflections glint under cold light, forming a stark contrast to the ominous artwork below.

Dominating the center is a demonic skull with outstretched bat-like wings, rendered in burnished bronze tones. Its hollow eyes and bared fangs radiate menace, a visual echo of the album’s violent energy. Beneath it, the band’s vivid green logo Overkill glows like toxic neon — a striking centerpiece surrounded by the names of the band members and the album’s production credits.

To the left and right, the track listing appears in crisp white text: Side One featuring “Deny the Cross” and “Wrecking Crew,” while Side Two closes with “Overkill II (The Nightmare Continues).” The composition balances aggression and control, reflecting both the raw power and professional precision that defined the 1980s thrash metal aesthetic.

Collector’s Photo Notes

The Vanished Label of "Taking Over"

When I first bought "Taking Over" by Overkill back in 1987, the idea of “cloud storage” was as mythical as a clean mosh pit. My entire collection of photos—painstakingly scanned on a beige desktop during the Windows 95 glory days—lived on floppy disks that could barely hold one decent image. Fast-forward a few decades, through countless system upgrades from Windows XP to macOS, and those label photos decided to take early retirement somewhere between a corrupted hard drive and an obsolete ZIP disk.

It’s funny now—how we treated a 20 MB backup like a vault of secrets, guarding it as if it were the master tapes of the album itself. The irony? The vinyl still plays perfectly, but the digital “safeguards” vanished into thin air. Proof that in the analog world, at least the grooves never forget.

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

OVERKILL - Feel the Fire
OVERKILL - Feel the Fire album front cover vinyl record

"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
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
OVERKILL - Horrorscope album front cover vinyl record

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

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)
OVERKILL - Under the Influence
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.

The Years of Decay 12" Vinyl LP