- 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: How did a record store shape metal forever? The Jon Zazula story – a must-read for music fans. Marsha Zazula widely known as a pioneering executive producer in the music industry, played a significant role in shaping the landscape of heavy metal music. Alongside her husband Jon Zazula, she co-founded and owned Megaforce Records, a renowned record label that served as a launching pad for numerous influential bands. Marsha's tireless dedication to supporting emerging talent and her unwavering commitment to the artists she worked with established her as an influential figure in the music business. Born and raised in the United States, Marsha developed a deep passion for music from an early age. She possessed an innate ability to recognize exceptional talent and had an unwavering belief in the power of heavy metal as a genre. In 1982, Marsha and Jon founded Megaforce Records in New Jersey, creating a platform to promote and distribute the music they loved. Marsha's role at Megaforce Records involved overseeing the production of albums for an impressive roster of bands. Throughout the 1980s, she produced over two dozen albums for notable acts such as Hades, Overkill, Raven, and Anthrax. Her work as a producer not only showcased her impeccable musical taste but also her ability to nurture artists and bring out their best performances. Under Marsha's guidance, Megaforce Records became synonymous with the burgeoning thrash metal movement of the 1980s. The label's roster boasted a diverse range of influential bands that pushed the boundaries of heavy metal music. Marsha's keen ear for talent and her dedication to ensuring the artists' artistic vision were preserved made Megaforce Records a sought-after destination for aspiring metal bands. Marsha's influence extended beyond the studio. She actively worked to secure recording contracts, negotiate deals, and promote the artists she believed in. Her relentless efforts to get the music heard by wider audiences resulted in several breakthrough moments for the bands she worked with. Beyond her work with Megaforce Records, Marsha also played a pivotal role in organizing and promoting live events. She recognized the importance of live performances as a means for bands to connect with their fans and build a devoted following. Through her efforts, Marsha helped facilitate countless memorable concerts and tours, solidifying Megaforce Records' reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the heavy metal scene. Marsha Zazula's contributions to the music industry have left an indelible mark on the world of heavy metal. Her passion, vision, and unwavering support for artists have been instrumental in shaping the careers of numerous bands and influencing the genre as a whole. Her work with Megaforce Records helped pave the way for the success of countless metal acts, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to resonate with fans and musicians to this day. 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: legendary mastering engineer behind iconic albums by Metallica, AC/DC, and more. Explore his life and groundbreaking career in music. 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 Information: 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
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