Overkill delivered a powerful performance at Poland’s Mystic Festival 2026 on June 4, 2026, in Gdańsk, with a dedicated fan capturing the entire show on video.
The veteran New Jersey thrashers are currently operating as a four-piece on the road. The lineup features founding vocalist Bobby “Blitz” Ellsworth, longtime guitarist Dave Linsk, new drummer Jeramie Kling, and filling in on bass is Christian Olde Wolbers (ex-Fear Factory).
Longtime guitarist Derek Tailer is sitting out the current run for undisclosed reasons. Founding bassist D.D. Verni is also absent due to ongoing shoulder issues.
In an April 2026 interview with The New York Hardcore Chronicles Live!, Verni explained his situation:
“I had another surgery done a little while ago… I had the surgery once, I did all the P.T. They told me I was good. I went out on the road, and I completely ripped it off again… rotator cuff and a bicep tear — on both shoulders. It’s just old-guy shit.”
He added that playing bass in a seated position is currently impossible, though he can still play guitar. Despite the physical setbacks, Verni confirmed he remains a full member of Overkill and is actively involved creatively.
“I’m writing right now. I have most of the new OVERKILL record done, demoed up… I just did a couple of new things yesterday… We got a couple of calls about some tours… probably looking at a release early next year, February, March, something like that.”
Bobby “Blitz” Ellsworth echoed this positivity in a March 2026 SiriusXM interview, stating the band is in full writing mode and eyeing a late 2026 or early 2027 release for the follow-up to 2023’s Scorched.
Overkill have always been known for their resilience and blue-collar work ethic. While it’s unfortunate to see D.D. Verni dealing with serious physical issues, the band is handling it professionally by keeping momentum going with strong replacements. Verni’s continued songwriting involvement ensures the band’s classic thrash sound remains intact. Fans can expect another heavy, no-nonsense Overkill record in the near future.
https://youtu.be/6dlECV1YeYI
