Ironbound is the 15th studio release album of thrash metal legends, Overkill and age has not weakened their furious and unrelenting thrash attack. Originating along with Anthrax on the west coast of the U.S.A in the early 1980’s the only two constant members of Overkill are vocalist Bobby “Blitz” Ellsworth and Carlos “D.D” Verni. Together they have held Overkill true to their roots throughout the past 20+ years and garnered respect and adoration from their fans and from thrash fans internationally.
Starting off in a very progressive mood (much different compared to their last few releases) this only last’s for around 90seconds before Overkill rip into doing what they do best, playing thrash. The opener “The Green And Black” is an 8 minute monster of an opening track, getting your attention from the moment Blitz starts singing with his patented vocal style. The song has a very good, small bass solo (akin to Motorheads “Overkill” track) before lead guitarist Dave Linsk rips into his finger bleeding solo. A great way to start the album.
The next song (the title track) “Ironbound” instantly begins with a furious attack of thrash that assures the listener that Overkill didn’t luck out with “The Green And Black.” This song is a galloping monster, reminiscent of 80’s Iron Maiden and that is not a bad thing. Following the title track is “Bring Me The Night” which is a solid song with a chorus that is sure to be a crowd favourite at any show.
The next few songs; “The Goal Is Your Soul,” “Give A Little” and “Endless War” are all strong songs that continue to show that Overkill’s age and longevity is not a handicap when it comes to writing crunching thrash songs.
Following these songs is “The Head And The Heart,” which is the best song on the album (that is saying a lot) and is destined to be a fist raising, crowd surfing and head banging song at any future Overkill shows. An instant classic Overkill song.
The album closes off with the songs “In Vain,” “Killing For A Living” and “The SRC.” None of which have any flaws, with “Killing…” being the strongest of the three and with a melodic intro that is reminiscent of Metallica’s classic song “Damage Inc.” This song is an absolute cruncher and shows off some of Blitz’s finest vocals on the whole album.
Ironbound is proof that Overkill can easily hang, and surpass any thrash metal band out there today. If this album was released in 2009, it would be an easy contender for “Album Of The Year”, though at the moment it is instantly a contender for that title for 2010. If you ever had any doubt about Overkill, this album is sure to squash them.
[9/10]
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