Overkill’s New Chapter: A Fresh Lineup adn Innovative Sound
The iconic thrash metal band Overkill is making notable strides following a major change in their lineup. Just over a year after the release of their latest album, Scorched, thes seasoned musicians from New jersey are already busy developing new material for their next project.
A Glimpse into the Creative Process
This week,fans were treated to an exclusive look at Overkill’s creative journey when drummer Jeramie Kling,who recently joined the group,shared his experiences with a Roland electronic drum kit during writng sessions. For Kling, this represents a modern approach to exploring Overkill’s signature fast-paced and riff-driven thrash sound. “I’m really enjoying my new Roland kit,” he stated, emphasizing its utility during both the “writing” and “demoing” stages.
Kling’s Background and Role in Overkill
Kling officially became Overkill’s drummer in August 2024, taking over from Jason Bittner, who had been part of the band as 2017. Known as a founding member ofThe Absence, Kling has also contributed to Venom Inc.‘s 2022 album, There’s Only Black. His extensive experience includes collaborations with bands such as FORE, Ribspreader, Goregäng , and Necromancing the Stone . He also briefly played with massacre , which led to forming Inhuman Condition alongside Terry Butler (< strong > Obituary , ex-< strong > Death ) and Taylor Nordberg (< strong > Deicide ).
Kling is not only an accomplished drummer but also brings expertise as a recording engineer,producer,and live sound technician—skills that will likely enhance Overkill’s future projects both in studio environments and live performances. His frist performance with Overkill took place on August 30, 2024, at Posada Rock Festival in Câmpulung Muscel, Romania.
The Transition: Bittner’s Departure Explained
Kling steps into shoes left by Jason Bittner—who played on both albums,The Wings of War (2019)and Scorched (2023). Bittner’s departure was anticipated; he revealed on the podcast pod Scum in November 2023 that he had been feeling unfulfilled within Overkill for “about two years.” Despite his frustrations regarding group dynamics, he remained loyal to his bandmates: “I’ve been disappointed for quite some time; though I’m a team player,” he expressed. Ultimately though, professional dissatisfaction led him to seek other opportunities.
Bittner further explained that financial considerations influenced his decision; performing five shows with another band would yield more income than thirty gigs with Overkill—a choice rooted more in business than personal conflict. He described it simply as “a business decision.”
Acknowledgment from Bandmates: D.D. Verni Speaks Out
Bassist D.D. Verni echoed these sentiments during an interview with Capital Chaos TV in September 2024: “we kind of anticipated this change coming; Jason had mentioned before that he was feeling overwhelmed by too manny commitments.” This insight reflects how closely connected members are regarding each other’s well-being throughout their musical journey.