ReliXIV cover

ReliXIV

Overkill · 2005

50 min · 10 tracks · thrash metal

A relentless barrage of thrashing riffs and aggressive vocals embody the raw intensity of heavy metal's underground spirit.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Within Your Eyes — Opening with a haunting melody before erupting into aggressive riffs, this track sets the thematic and sonic tone for the entire album.
  • →
    Bats in the Belfry — This track balances intricate guitar work with energetic rhythms, showcasing Overkill’s signature blend of technicality and aggression.
  • →
    Old School — An homage to classic thrash influences, this song encapsulates the band's roots while appealing to both old fans and newcomers alike.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

60 /100
Treeline
Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

ReliXIV showcases Overkill's thrash metal prowess with aggressive riffs and solid production, maintaining their distinct sound.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a fast-paced track that sets a relentless tempo, which is maintained through the first half before slowing slightly in the latter tracks.
  • Riffs are layered with aggressive vocals, often featuring call-and-response patterns between the lead singer and backing vocals.
  • Several tracks incorporate tempo changes, with some shifting from rapid thrash sections to slower, heavier breakdowns.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo energy flow
  • introspective lyrics with intensity
  • focus on relentless riffs
  • great for headbanging sessions

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer quick, upbeat tracks
  • seek soft, mellow sounds

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2005, ReliXIV marked Overkill's tenth studio album, solidifying their status as veterans in the thrash metal scene. Following the success of their previous album, Killbox 13, this record showcases their continued evolution while maintaining the signature sound that fans have come to expect.
Stylistic neighbors
Testament· Anthrax· Megadeth

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • Keeper

    The verses shift from a reflective tone about personal struggles to an explosive chorus that emphasizes resilience and determination.

    This dynamic contrast not only heightens emotional engagement but also illustrates a narrative development that propels the song forward.

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Within Your Eyes 6:06
  • 2 Love 5:40
  • 3 Loaded Rack 4:43
  • 4 Bats in the Belfry 4:47
  • 5 A Pound of Flesh 3:37
  • 6 Keeper 5:12
  • 7 Wheelz 5:10
  • 8 The Mark 5:54
  • 9 Play the Ace 5:34
  • 10 Old School 3:51

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata