Overkill - Scorched
• album review •

Who would have guessed that New Jersey's thrash legends Overkill would still be unleashing their ferocious sound in 2023? Yet here they are, delivering their 20th studio album, Scorched. Following the somewhat bloated The Wings of War from 2019, Scorched brings a leaner, more aggressive Overkill, rekindling the fire that defined their early days. This album not only pays homage to their roots but also packs a few unexpected punches, proving that the band’s ferocity hasn’t waned one bit.

Scorched kicks off with a brutal opener, the title track, which sets the tone with jagged riffs and Bobby Blitz’s signature snarls. At over six minutes, it's the longest track on the album and showcases some of the most insane guitar work seen from Overkill in recent years. Despite its length, the song’s intensity never falters, leaving you primed for the auditory assault that follows.

Tracks like “Goin’ Home” hark back to the band’s glory days, with riffs reminiscent of the Under the Influence era. The nostalgia is palpable, bringing a rush of 80s thrash vibes. “The Surgeon” stands out with its vicious vocal patterns, echoing the aggression of “It Ain’t My Fault” by The Brothers Osbourne. Meanwhile, “Wicked Place” and “Fever” dive into bluesy, Sabbath-inspired grooves, adding depth and variety to the album. The latter track even features subtle bongo drums and surprisingly gentle vocals from Blitz, before exploding into the band’s trademark ferocity.

“Won’t Be Coming Back” is a personal favorite, with a punk-infused energy that taps into the band’s early roots. It’s a gritty, raw track that channels the spirit of their debut Feel the Fire, warming the hearts of long-time fans. “Know Her Name” follows suit, with massive riffs and Blitz’s relentless vocal attack, supported by D.D. Verni’s thunderous bass lines.

Even the more straightforward tracks like “Harder They Fall” manage to captivate with their sheer aggression and sincerity. Despite the 51-minute runtime, Scorched feels brisk and concise, thanks to the tighter writing and blistering pace. Colin Richardson’s production is top-notch, delivering a raw, punchy sound that highlights the band’s strengths, especially the razor-sharp guitar work of Dave Linsk and Derek Tailer.

Blitz’s voice remains a marvel, his gritty, venomous delivery as potent as ever. Verni’s bass work continues to provide a solid foundation, blending the precision of Steve Harris with the raw energy of The Misfits. The entire band sounds revitalized, their passion for the music evident in every track.

Scorched is a testament to Overkill’s enduring legacy, a fierce and fiery return to form that stands out in their extensive discography. It’s their best release since White Devil Armory, and a must-listen for any fan of thrash metal. If you think you can handle the heat, dive into Scorched and experience Overkill at their finest. Teeth are optional.