- Megaforce Records
Album Description: "Under the Influence" was the first Overkill album to feature Sid Falck on drums. The album spawned the single "Hello From The Gutter", and the music video achieved regular airplay on MTV's Headbangers Ball.
Released in 1988 on Megaforce Records, "Under the Influence" marked a pivotal moment in Overkill's career. The album arrived as thrash metal was reaching its peak, with bands like Metallica and Slayer enjoying mainstream success. Yet, Overkill maintained their unique East Coast sound, further solidifying their place in the genre.
Historical Context
Thrash metal was in full swing in 1988. Bands were pushing boundaries, experimenting with sounds, and gaining wider recognition. Overkill, with their relentless energy and aggressive sound, were ready to take the next step in their career. "Under the Influence" served as a testament to their growth and evolution.
Musical Exploration
"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. Tracks like "Hello From the Gutter" and "Shred" are pure thrash anthems, while "Never Say Never" and "Drunken Wisdom" delve into darker, more melodic territory.
Recording Studio and New Drummer
"Under the Influence" was recorded at Pyramid Sound Studios in Ithaca, New York. The album also marks the debut of drummer Sid Falck, who replaced Rat Skates after his departure in 1987. Falck's powerful drumming style added a new dimension to Overkill's sound, further enhancing their intensity.
George Marino's Mastering
The album was mastered by the renowned engineer George Marino at Sterling Sound. Marino's expertise in mastering metal albums ensured that "Under the Influence" had a powerful and polished sound, further solidifying Overkill's place in the thrash metal pantheon.
Music Genre: Thrash Metal |
| Album Production Information: The album: "OVERKILL - Under the Influence Megaforce" was produced by: Overkill, Alex Perialas Executive Producers: Jon and Marsha Zazula ( Jon Zazula is founder of the Megaforce record company and discovered and promoted Metallica.) 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.
Marsha Zazula, co-founder of Megaforce Records, played a pivotal role in launching Metallica’s groundbreaking career during the early 1980s. With her sharp eye for talent and passion for heavy metal, she, alongside her husband
Jon
, helped bring Metallica’s debut album Kill ’Em All to life, shaping the thrash metal movement.
Learn more about her impact here.
This album was recorded at:
Pyramid Studios, Ithaca, New York Mixed by: Michael Wagener for Double Trouble Productions Mastered by: George Marino, Sterling Sound, New York City George Marino was a legendary mastering engineer whose expertise shaped the sound of countless iconic albums. Born in 1947, he honed his craft at Capitol Records before joining Sterling Sound in 1973. His mastering work on albums by AC/DC, Metallica, and Guns N' Roses defined rock and metal's sonic power. His legacy endures through his meticulous audio craftsmanship. Learn more
Album cover Artwork: Fastner & Larson (Rich Larson, Steve Fastner: ) Album photography: Dan Muro, Ron Akiyama, Frank White Dun Muro is an American photographer and graphic designer, born in 1956. Played as guitarist in a band called "White Tiger" in New Orleans from 1978 to 1982, when he changed career to become a photographer. Now owns and runs the design agency Fast Forward Unlimited.
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Record Label & Catalognr: Megaforce Worldwide 781 865-1, Atlantic 781 865-1 |
Media Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone RecordTotal Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
Year & Country: 1988 Europe |
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: OVERKILL - Under the Influence Megaforce |
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Complete Track-listing of the album "OVERKILL - Under the Influence Megaforce" |
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The detailed tracklist of this record "OVERKILL - Under the Influence Megaforce" is:
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Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. 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 ).
"Under The Influence" Record Label Details: Megaforce Worldwide 781 865-1, Atlantic 781 865-1
"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
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
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
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
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)
"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
"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