Originally released in 1988,
Under the Influence is another confident, if unremarkable
Overkill recording. Highlights include the punk-ish "Overkill III (Under the Influence)," as well as trademark pseudo-thrash numbers like "Shred," "Never Say Never," and the minor hit single/video "Hello From the Gutter." One subtle, but very consistent problem with
Overkill's brutal riffing sticks out just a little bit more than usual on
Under the Influence. That is, the clanky ringing and exaggerated attack of bassist
D.D. Verni's instrument.
Verni bogs down the group's sound, weakening
Overkill's otherwise tight and unified rhythmic signature. As usual, the real problem with
Under the Influence is vocalist
Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth's overdone vocals.
Ellsworth is a singer of rare ability, but his cartoon approach takes
Overkill way over the top, eroding the band's technically impressive, musical base. But despite this consistent challenge to their listenability,
Overkill still cranks out their own brand of first-class metal on
Under the Influence, a record that, while respectable, might only interest the most passionate fans of the band. ~ Vincent Jeffries