OVERKILL „Ironbound”

Music: Thrash Metal
Website: http://www.wreckingcrew.com
Country: USA
Duration: 58:04 (10 songs)
Cool Songs: Ironbound, The Goal Is Your Soul, The Head And Heart

To our collective delight, these geezers realize there’s no point lying low in a thrash scene that’s still enjoying a resurgence so new Overkill is a must. Unlike their previous effort “Immortalis,” matters start subtly for Overkill’s zillionth album called “Ironbound.” At first there’s a lengthy bass noodle from longtime member D.D. Verni, then the guitars rip a hole in your speakers before Bobby Blitz Ellsworth serves lyrical venom with extra helpings of riffs. First track “The Green An Black” is a lovely, lovely tune cranking open this can of aural whupass. Said whupass firmly plants its foot inside yer bunghole with the bone breaking title track that’s both memorable and head bang worthy.

Despite the polish of its modern production Overkill do a 180 on the ensuing songs to deliver old school charm in their particular fashion, meaning there’s glimmers of early 80’s speed that still bear the mark of punk. Such is the case with “Bring Me The Night,” the chaotic mess that’s “The Goal Is Your Soul,” and the oddly titled “Give A Little.” This being thrash, the band dish out an ode about war, itself a theme that’s been overdone since forever. But coming from a band whose discography runs 16 albums strong, it’s guaranteed no matter the topic, Overkill can shape it into a solid tune. Next comes the very satisfying “The Head And Heart” that’s all creepy with the chants at the beginning only to rage for the better part of five minutes.

The guitar soloing here, while ambitious at times (try “Ironbound” and “the Goal Is Your Soul”) keeps itself from getting too over-the-top. After all, this is Overkill, a quintet who’ve always focused on the whole package: songwriting, hooks, melodies, etc. What’s really gonna impress people about “Ironbound” is the sheer energy of a band who, this late in their careers, still have the libido for this type of musical fare. It’s heard in its infernal majesty on the three-hit combo that finishes the album; “In Vain,” “Killing For A Living,” and “The SRC.” Metal is off to a good start this year, and with new albums from Exodus and Testament just over the horizon, it’s best to catch the thrash fever early. “Ironbound” is a sure bet.

note: 8.5/10

Tracklist

The Green And Black
Ironbound
Bring Me The Night
The Goal Is Your Soul
Give A Little
Endless War
The Head And Heart
In Vain
Killing For A Living
The SRC

Line-up

Bobby Blitz Ellsworth- Vocals
DD Verni- Bass
Dave Linsk- Guitar
Derek Tailer- Guitar
Ron Lipnicki- Drums