About this album

Sound: "A relentless fusion of thrash metal aggression and dark lyrical themes, punctuated by haunting melodies."

Where they were

By the time 'I Hear Black' was released in January 1993, Overkill was solidifying their status as a leading name in thrash metal. This album followed their successful record 'Horrorscope' (1991) and showcased a shift towards darker, more introspective themes, reflecting the band's evolution in sound and lyrical depth during the early '90s.

Why it matters

'I Hear Black' is significant for its exploration of heavier and darker themes that resonated throughout the metal community during the early '90s. While it didn't achieve the same commercial success as its predecessor, it received positive reviews for its bold experimentation and is often credited with influencing a generation of metal bands exploring similar thematic depths.

Essential tracks

  • "I Hear Black" — The title track encapsulates the album's heavy atmosphere and introduces listeners to its darker lyrical content, making it a quintessential Overkill anthem.
  • "Dreaming in Columbian" — With its intricate guitar work and dynamic shifts, this track exemplifies Overkill's technical prowess while addressing complex social issues.
  • "Weight of the World" — This song combines powerful riffs with contemplative lyrics, showcasing the band's ability to merge aggression with introspection effectively.
  • "Spiritual Void" — Its haunting melody paired with heavy instrumentation highlights the emotional depth present on this album, marking a significant moment in Overkill’s discography.

Release Date

January 1, 1993

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Dreaming in Columbian 4:00
  2. 2 I Hear Black 5:37
  3. 3 World of Hurt 5:19
  4. 4 Feed My Head 5:36
  5. 5 Shades of Grey 5:19
  6. 6 Spiritual Void 5:13
  7. 7 Ghost Dance 1:46
  8. 8 Weight of the World 4:07
  9. 9 Ignorance & Innocence 5:00
  10. 10 Undying 5:25
  11. 11 Just Like You 4:13