OVERKILL - Taking Over - Noise International 12" LP Vinyl Album

"Taking Over" is the second album by thrash metal band Overkill, released by Megaforce Records in 1987. The album, was the last to feature Rat Skates on drums, who would leave the band later that year. Taking Over reached #191 on the Billboard 200. 

 

High Resolution Photo of overkill taking over germany  

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.

Music Genre:

  80s Heavy / Thrash Metal 

Album Production Information:

The album: "OVERKILL - Taking Over" was produced by: Alex Perialas, Overkill, Jon Zazula

Stephen Innocenzi - Mastering Engineer

Tom Coyne - Mastering Engineer

Christie Mullen - Photographer

Ron Akiyama - Photographer

Daniel Muro - Album Artwork

Mike Vayenes - Photographer

William Benson - Album Artwork

Extra information on the people responsibe for the production of "Taking Over"

Alex Perialas is an American Producer and sound engineer, and owner of the "Pyramid Sound Recording Studios" in Ithaca, and has been responsible for the production and engineering of dozens of Heavy Metal albums during the 1980s. Perialas is a well-known music producer and engineer who has been active in the industry for over three decades. He has worked with a wide range of musical artists, including heavy metal bands like Anthrax , Slayer , and Overkill , as well as pop artists like Taylor Dayne and New Kids on the Block. Throughout his career, Perialas has become known for his technical expertise, creative vision, and ability to bring out the best in his artists.

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Perialas was born in Greece and grew up surrounded by music. His father was a classical guitarist and his mother was a singer, so it was only natural that he would develop an early love for music. He began playing the guitar at the age of 12 and quickly became interested in recording and producing music. He moved to the United States in the 1970s to study music engineering and quickly began working in the industry, first as an assistant engineer and then as a producer.

One of Perialas' earliest successes came with the release of the album "Among the Living" by Anthrax in 1987. This album marked a departure from the traditional sound of heavy metal and helped to establish Perialas as a major player in the genre. He went on to produce several more albums for the band, including "State of Euphoria" and "Persistence of Time". He also worked with other heavy metal acts like Slayer, Overkill, and Testament, helping to shape the sound of the genre and establish it as one of the dominant forces in popular music.

In addition to his work in heavy metal, Perialas has also produced and engineered albums in a wide range of other genres. He has worked with pop artists like Taylor Dayne and New Kids on the Block, helping to create some of their biggest hits. He has also worked with hip-hop artists like MC Lyte and jazz musicians like Grover Washington Jr. This versatility and ability to work with a wide range of artists is one of the reasons why Perialas has been so successful throughout his career.

Throughout his career, Perialas has been dedicated to the art of music production and engineering. He has a deep understanding of the technical aspects of recording and a keen ear for what makes a song sound great. He is also a creative visionary who is able to bring out the best in his artists, helping them to create music that is both innovative and commercial. His work has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy nominations and wins.

In conclusion, Alex Perialas is a music producer and engineer who has made a significant impact on the industry. His work has helped to shape the sound of heavy metal and establish it as one of the dominant genres in popular music. He has also worked with a wide range of other artists, bringing out the best in them and helping them to create innovative and commercially successful music

Jon Zazula: How did a record store shape metal forever? The Jon Zazula story – a must-read for music fans.

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.

Ron Akiyama (His Name Is Somtimes Misspelled As "Ron Akiama") Is A Photographer And Has Done Photography For The Albums Of "Anthrax", "M.O.D." And "Overkill".

Daniel Muro Worked For The Producer Todd Gordon On Several Heavy Metal Bands. Bands He Has Photographed Include Overkill, Hades And Many Others.

Record 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  
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: OVERKILL - Taking Over
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth - Lead Vocals
  • D.D. Verni - Bass
  • Bobby Gustafson - Guitar
  • Rat Skates - Drums

Notes on the musicians of Overkill band

Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth (realname: Robert Joseph Ellsworth) Lead singer with the American Thrash Metal band Overkill since 1980

Bobby Gustafson (real-name Robert Wayne Gustafson) - Guitar, timeline:
- 1980-1982 The DropOuts
- 1982-1990 Overkill

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".

Rat Skates - Drums, timeline:
- 1978-1980 The Lubricunts
- 1980-1987 Overkill
- 1990-1993 Bomb Squad

 

Complete Track-listing of the album "OVERKILL - Taking Over"

The Song/tracks on "Overkill Taking Over" are:

    Side One:
  • Deny The Cross
  • Wrecking Crew
  • Fear His Name
  • Use Your Head
  • Fatal if Swallowed
    Side Two:
  • Powersurge
  • In Union We Stand
  • Electro-Violence
  • OverKill II (The Nightmare Continues)
High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover  "OVERKILL - Taking Over"

High Resolution Photo of overkill taking over germany  

High Resolution Photo of overkill taking over germany  

 

 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"

Band Description:

  OVERKILL is an American heavy metal band that was formed in 1980 in New Jersey. The band is considered one of the pioneers of the thrash metal genre and has been influential in shaping the sound of heavy metal in the 1980s and beyond.

  History

  OVERKILL was formed by guitarist Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth and bassist D.D. Verni, who were high school friends. The band's early lineup also included drummer Rat Skates and guitarist Dan Spitz, who later left to join Anthrax. The band's first album, "Feel the Fire," was released in 1985 and received positive reviews from critics. This was followed by a string of successful albums, including "Taking Over" (1987), "Under the Influence" (1988), and "The Years of Decay" (1989).

  During the 1990s, the band's popularity declined due to the rise of grunge and alternative rock. However, the band continued to release albums and tour. In 2010, the band celebrated its 30th anniversary and released the album "Ironbound," which was well-received by both fans and critics.

  Music and lyrical themes

  OVERKILL's music is characterized by fast and aggressive guitar riffs, pounding drums, and Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth's distinctive vocals. The band's early sound was heavily influenced by the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, but they later developed their own style that incorporated elements of punk and thrash.

  The band's lyrics often deal with social and political issues, as well as personal struggles and the darker side of human nature. Some of the band's most notable songs include "Elimination," "Hello from the Gutter," and "Horrorscope."

  Impact on the heavy metal scene

  OVERKILL has had a significant impact on the heavy metal scene, particularly in the thrash metal genre. The band's fast and aggressive style has influenced many other bands in the genre, including Metallica, Slayer, and Megadeth. In addition, the band's uncompromising attitude and dedication to their music has inspired many fans and musicians alike.