Overkill - Taking Over

Taking Over was released on Atlantic Records, making it Overkill's major-label debut after their first album Feel the Fire (1985) came out on Megaforce Records. The move to Atlantic reflected the growing major-label interest in thrash metal during the late 1980s, which also saw Metallica and Anthrax sign to major labels.

"In Union We Stand" became one of Overkill's signature songs and received significant MTV airplay on Headbangers Ball. Other key tracks include "Elimination," which became a setlist staple, and the album's blend of speed metal riffing with Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth's distinctive vocals helped define Overkill's identity within the East Coast thrash scene.

Taking Over sharpened the sound established on Feel the Fire, with tighter production and more confident songwriting that positioned Overkill alongside bands like Anthrax and Exodus in the second tier of thrash behind the "Big Four." The album's prominent bass work by D.D. Verni and Ellsworth's cutting vocal delivery gave the band a recognizable identity distinct from Bay Area thrash acts.

The Taking Over lineup featured Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth on vocals, D.D. Verni on bass, Bobby Gustafson on guitar, and Rat Skates on drums. This was the same core lineup from Feel the Fire, and their chemistry is evident in the album's tighter performances and more ambitious arrangements.