Overkill working on new metal record
Thrash metal giants Overkill have wasted no time getting back to work following a major lineup change. With just over a year passing since their last album Scorched, the veteran band from New Jersey is already in the midst of writing and demoing new material for their upcoming release.
The band recently shared a post from their new drummer Jeramie Kling, who excitedly announced that he has been using a Roland electronic kit during their writing sessions. This marks a new era for Kling as he explores Overkill’s fast-paced, riff-heavy thrash sound with this innovative setup, stating that the Roland kit has been invaluable for both the writing and demoing processes.
Kling officially joined Overkill in August 2024, taking over the drumming duties from Jason Bittner, who had been with the band since 2017. Kling, known for his work with The Absence and Venom Inc., brings a wealth of experience to the table, having been involved in several other projects like FORE, Ribspreader, and Goregäng. His diverse musical background, coupled with his skills as a recording engineer, producer, and live sound engineer, suggests exciting possibilities for Overkill’s future endeavors on both the studio and stage.
The transition to Kling in the drumming position comes after Bittner’s departure, who recorded on the band’s last two albums, The Wings of War and Scorched. Bittner’s decision to leave his role in Overkill was discussed on the Pod Scum podcast in November 2023, where he shared his dissatisfaction with the band’s direction for the past couple of years. Financial and professional considerations were cited as the primary factors influencing his departure, as he felt he could achieve greater success playing with other projects.
Bassist D.D. Verni also acknowledged in an interview the band’s awareness of Bittner’s impending departure, noting that they had expected it due to his increasing burnout from juggling multiple commitments. Despite the changes, there was mutual respect between Bittner and the band members, signifying a professional and amicable parting of ways.
Overkill’s decision to forge ahead with new music quickly showcases their unwavering dedication to their craft. With a rich history spanning nearly four decades and close to 20 studio albums, the band continues to push boundaries while retaining the core elements of their signature thrash sound from the ’80s.
Kling’s arrival injects fresh energy into the band, offering the potential for technical innovation in the drumming department and a different approach to production on their next record. Fans can only speculate on what Overkill’s upcoming release will sound like, but with their revitalized lineup and the promise of new material on the horizon, it’s clear that the band shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.