By: Brandon “B-Mac” McCarthy
When it comes to charismatic frontmen who bring raw talent and sheer tenacity to the stage, nobody can hold a candle to Bobby Ellsworth, aka Bobby Blitz of Overkill. I remember first interviewing him back in 2014 when the band put together their 17th studio release, White Devil Armory. The gang from New Jersey is back at it with their new ultra-sensational album, The Grinding Wheel. The band has been on the road with Nile this winter and I got to attend their show at the City National Grove in Anaheim, Calif. I also got the chance to catch up with Blitzon his tour bus, where we had ourselves a nice chat
We started things off by talking about the new record and what makes it special. As Blitz tells it,
the album is very diverse and unique, like putting on fresh coat paint with an old school touch.
When I asked him about the following the band gets, he says he lives more in the current day and
does not over think it. We would talk about the songs from the album and where the inspiration
comes from. There was a discussion that involved his partnership with longtime bass player D.D.
Verni, like my partnership with photographer Matt Martinez, we just work
great together. We both agreed that there has been some sort of resurgence in thrash metal thanks
in part to the younger fans.
in part to the younger fans.
We even talked the Grammy performance by Lady Gaga and Metallica. He said he admired her
voice and thought she did a good job crossing metal with pop. As for musical influences, Blitz
told me he actually likes Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Overkill plans on hitting the European
circuit later on this year. When I believed he was on the right side of politics, he actually
corrected me on that I was misled thanks to Wikipedia. He goes on to tell me that a person
should believe what they believe. I do not really like going into politics, but Blitz’s response to
the topic was very articulate. My final question was about which younger band is his favorite.
His favorite was Warbringer, mine was Amaranthe.
His favorite was Warbringer, mine was Amaranthe.
Talking to him in person was much more fun than on the phone the first time. Being able to
speak on the tour bus made the interview cooler. Blitz is full of life and wisdom. When he made
jokes during the interview, he and I had ourselves a good laugh. I admire him for his honesty and
intelligent thoughts. What was really cool about was he went to talk with some army veterans
after we talked; something I thought was honorable of him. This was one interview that will stay
with me forever. To Bobby Blitz, I salute you. Horns up!!!
with me forever. To Bobby Blitz, I salute you. Horns up!!!
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