Overkill formed in New Jersey in 1980. Eagerly embracing the fast tempo, shredding guitar style, and high-pitched vocals of contemporaries like Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth, and Anthrax, they were part of thrash's first wave. Despite multiple lineup changes—vocalist Bobby "Blitz" Ellsworth and bassist D. D. Verni are the only constant members—they have stayed at the top of their game for over 30 years.