Overkill cover

Overkill

Motörhead · 1979

51 min · 15 tracks · hard rock · heavy metal · speed metal

Unrelenting riffs and gritty vocals drive a raw, high-octane sound that defines heavy metal's edge.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • unrelenting energy for workouts
  • dynamic peaks and valleys
  • short bursts of intensity
  • headbanging anthems with friends
  • late-night adrenaline rush

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer mellow, relaxed sounds
  • avoid chaotic, high-energy vibes

Where this album fits

Themes
relentless determination· punk defiance· chaotic resilience
Career context
By the time of 'Overkill's' release in March 1979, Motörhead had solidified their presence in the heavy metal scene with their self-titled debut and the acclaimed 'Bomber.' This album marked a significant evolution in their sound, showcasing a more aggressive style that would influence countless bands in the burgeoning speed metal genre.
Stylistic neighbors
Judas Priest· Iron Maiden· AC/DC
Sounds like this from elsewhere
British Steel by Judas Priest — Shares a similar aggressive edge and relentless riffs, defining the sound of early heavy metal.
Killers by Iron Maiden — Combines gritty vocals with fast-paced instrumentals, echoing themes of chaos and resilience.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Overkill 5:12
  • 2 Stay Clean 2:42
  • 3 (I Won't) Pay Your Price 2:57
  • 4 I'll Be Your Sister 2:55
  • 5 Capricorn 4:11
  • 6 No Class 2:41
  • 7 Damage Case 3:02
  • 8 Tear Ya Down 2:42
  • 9 Metropolis 3:37
  • 10 Limb From Limb 4:57
  • 11 Too Late, Too Late (B-side of Overkill) 3:27
  • 12 Like a Nightmare (B-side of No Class) 4:28
  • 13 Louie, Louie 2:48
  • 14 Tear Ya Down (instrumental version) 2:39
  • 15 Louie, Louie (alternate version) 2:54

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata