"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.
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.
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Music Genre: 80s Heavy / Thrash Metal |
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Album Production Information: The album: "OVERKILL - Taking Over" was produced by: Alex Perialas, Overkill, Jon Zazula.
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.
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 .
Stephen Innocenzi - Mastering Engineer 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.
Christie Mullen - Photographer Ron Akiyama - Photographer Ron Akiyama (his name is sometimes misspelled as "Ron Akiama") is a photographer and has done photography for the albums of "Anthrax", "M.O.D." And "Overkill".
Daniel Muro - Album Artwork Mike Vayenes - Photographer William Benson - Album Artwork Extra information on the people responsibe for the production of "Taking Over"
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Record Label & Catalognr: Noise International N 0091 / SPV 08-4422 |
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Media Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone RecordTotal Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
Year & Country:1987 Made in Germany |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: OVERKILL - Taking Over |
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: 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:
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Complete Track-listing of the album "OVERKILL - Taking Over" |
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The Song/tracks on "Overkill Taking Over" are:
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High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover "OVERKILL - Taking Over" |
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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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Feel the Fire 12" Vinyl LP
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- Taking Over (1987, Canada) - Taking Over (1987, Germany) - Taking Over (1987, USA)
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The Years of Decay 12" Vinyl LP