Overkill is a thrash metal band from New Jersey, formed in 1980. Known for their energetic blend of punk and heavy metal influences, they are regarded as one of the leading bands of East Coast thrash. The band’s lineup has seen many changes, but bassist DD Verni and vocalist Bobby Blitz Ellsworth remain from the original group. Today, the band is completed by guitarist Dave Linsk, rhythm guitarist Derek The Skull Tailer, and touring drummer Jeramie Kling. Overkill's signature style has earned them the nickname the Motorhead of thrash metal. The band is also known for their mascot Chaly, a skeletal bat figure featured on many of their album covers. Overkill was among the first thrash bands to sign with a major label in the mid-1980s, standing alongside acts like Anthrax, Nuclear Assault, Exodus, and Testament during the genre’s rise. They achieved early chart success with albums such as Taking Over, Under the Influence, and The Years of Decay, and have released twenty studio albums to date. Overkill continues to have a devoted international fanbase, especially in Europe and Japan, and their later albums have reached the US charts. The band has sold over sixteen million records worldwide.