10 Best Thrash Metal Bands Outside Of The Big 4

Their first album might have only been released in 1985, but the band Overkill had been around for a number of years before that, meaning that they are older than any of the current Big Four.

Initially calling themselves Virgin Killer (glad they dropped that one), the band settled on a name inspired by Motörhead's second album. They would play some of Lemmy's songs during their formative years, and would earn comparisons to the group from critics once they became established.

Overkill's style was very much influenced by punk and the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, letting them stand out in what soon become a crowded thrash market. In 1986, they became the first thrash band to sign with a major label and have released a whopping 20 studio albums since that day.

Much like a reliable old car, Overkill may have had several parts replaced over the years, but they still work just as well as when they were new.

Their devotion to thrash and unbelievable work ethic has kept them in the hearts and minds of fans long after many of their contemporaries have faded from memory.