OVER KILL

If you’re old enough to have grown up in New Jersey in the 80s and like hard rock, heavy metal or thrash, then you probably know of the band Overkill. Starting with a mix of punk, metal and gothic theatrics, Overkill built up a following on the tri-state club circuit. They evolved into one of the foremost thrash bands, and eventually landed themselves a major label record deal. Over thirty years later, they’re considered a mainstay of the thrash/metal scene, continue to deliver the goods with new material, and tour globally on a regular basis.

- Danny Garber

I recently had the chance to speak with several of the members of Overkill about music, their tattoos (and the stories behind them) and their “tools of the trade,” (that would be their instruments). A bit of disclosure: I’ve crossed paths with Overkill many times over the years, both as an audience member and as a tech working for opening bands, working with Overkill band members at charity events, and finally as their backline tech for a one-off gig in early 2020.

Danny Garber: Briefly, introduce yourself and what instrument you play and when did you start?

Bobby Blitz Ellsworth. I got my first instrument, a Hofner bass guitar, at 13. I began singing for Overkill in 1980 while in college, and have ever since.

When did you get your first tattoo and was it “just because” or did you have a specific design in mind?

I was 40. I wanted inverted flames on my side, a fire burning up and out as to fit my body. More so a contour. The colors were chosen to fit my skin tone, the blues to match or reflect the veins in my arms/skin.

Is there a particular artist that you wanted a tattoo from and got it? When? What is it?

I only have the two, but they are the same design. I consider it one tattoo in two places. The forearm was added to balance out the tat on my side. Both were done by Johnny Eagle, in West Milford, NJ.

With all the touring the band has done over the years, have you gotten a tattoo in a specific state or country?

I have not, I was a one-and-done guy.

This may be an unfair question, but do you have a favorite tat? Explain.

Yes.......the one I have!