New Jersey thrash metal veterans Overkill release their 20th studio album, "Scorched," via Nuclear Blast Records. The album's first single, "The Surgeon," is accompanied by an official visualizer. Overkill's lead singer Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth, comments on the album's lengthy creation process, which took place between February 2019 and April 2023. "Scorched" marks a new recording environment for the band, as each member recorded their parts independently. Colin Richardson, assisted by Chris Clancy, handled the mixing, while Johnny Rodd produced the vocals, and Maor Appelbaum mastered and added finishing touches. The band collaborated with artist Travis Smith to create the album cover art. The tracklisting for "Scorched" includes ten songs, such as "Goin' Home," "Twist of the Wick," and "Bag O' Bones."
What Worked
Though not included in the Big 4 of thrash metal bands - Metallica, Megadeth, Anthrax, and Slayer - Overkill have been at it just as long, lead by singer Bobby Ellsworth and bassist D.D. Verni, the only two founding members remaining. Twenty albums in, listeners know what to expect from Overkill - melodic thrashing with insane solos, blasts of double bass drum, and plenty of dynamic twists and turns. Highlights include the incendiary "Twist of the Wick," which includes a Gregorian chant breakdown, the swinging "Wicked Place," and the album titled opener.
What Didn't Work
While Scorched sounds great, and longtime fans will be pleased with their return, not much new happens here. Many of the songs are interchangeable with the output over the last dozen or so years, and the melodic hooks aren't quite as plentiful as hoped.
Dig Me Out rating: 🤷♂️ Better EP
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