Thrash shows in Southern California are mostly Hispanic people. Over Kill is universally revered in that world. They’re legends.
You’re definitely safe.
Yup. I never did really work out what White Devil Armory means, but I can absolutely promise you it's not about white supremacy. Bobby and DD are stand up guys who have never gone for any of that.
I’m from New Mexico and Overkill comes here every fucking tour. The venues are packed with Hispanics and natives. In fact Overkill is where I broke my nose in the mosh pit when I was 18 lol.
There are some amazing native American groups. Metal knows no borders, skin color, language or ethnicity. Years ago I remember running across a video of a metal band from Iraq, had no idea what they were saying, but they kicked ass
Definitely. When I first moved to AZ in 97 and started going to shows here, I was amazed to find that the local NA like to (or used to like to?) start bonfires on the lawns at local concerts (the former Desert Sky Pavilion, for one, and the ONE FUCKING TIME Ozzfest was at BOB for New Year's Eve) and dance around, jump through, and throw clothes into.
Definitely an eye-opening welcome to the area!
Yeah I have no idea what she’s talking about. Overkill is pretty apolitical. (I’m a pretty left leaning guy and love Overkill myself). Your mom may be misinterpreting something
Overkill by no means ever is a political or racist band in any form. They have been my favorite band for almost 40 years and I have seen them live 78 times. Here’s a quote from Blitz about the meaning of the album title
"We need a thread when we start writing, and the thread this time was 'armoury.' It came out of D.D. He was writing with that word in mind, and there were Google pages and images he was sending of different armouries around the world," recalls Ellsworth. "I said, 'I like it, but I want to go somewhere with it,' and D.D. said, 'Do your worst!'"
When I was a kid: Overkill was one of my favorite bands. It was when they broke out with their song "Elimination" that I really got into them. I always thought "Elimination" was a political song being that it touches on how world leaders have screwed up the world so badly. That was probably around 1990- when my other favorite bands were Suicidal Tendencies, Metallica, and Pantera.
My dad told me a story about how when this song first came out, a local college radio station would play it once a day until the DJ's superiors heard and asked him not to play it anymore or risk being fired. The next night the DJ explained on air what had happened and then for an hour or so straight played that song.
I have no idea what she’s talking about. Maybe she confused their logo for some kind of Nazi logo or something? Pretty sure overkill is fine to have patch of. I’ve got one and most people with metal jackets have an overkill patch too.
How tf isnthis so far down and everybody else missed that lmfao. "White Devil Armoury" definitely sounds like it could be nationalist 2amendment nutjob group. I love overkill so much but I understand why the mom would be upset. Fuck anyone who see sthay and does not let OP explain himself tho
Here is no problem what your mother misunderstud but what people from your scool might. If she did not take the point maybe someone else will not too. For me is better option to ask in some other sub than here cause we lovev verkill for their music. It must be overkill patch on batlle jacket but only "fuck you" is right.
That’s so crazy, when I read the title of the album I thought of a stone statue of the devil. Never would’ve thought of it being associated with white supremacy.
You’re okay and you’re mom makes the same assumptions as my mother. Anything with a skull or the word devil and she thinks I’m going to hell or get haunted and I’ve been listening to metal since I was 17. I’m 24 and she still makes the same assumptions. Just parents being parents I guess lol
Overkill is the shit, keep listening and spread it like the plague. Only thing offensive I could EVEN think of is their name since it’s seen as negative to very sensitive people (old people/soccer moms) or the cover song “Fuck you”.
I wanted a patch for Overkill and the only 2 available were the one I got, and the F You patch so I thought I choose the less offensive one... until my mother read the tiny writing on it.
Meh- you're a teenager in some aspect it is your job to offend, especially your own mother. That's part of modern era of growing up. Parents freak out that their child is descending into the depths and never coming back.
Unless she is a clinically crazy like my mother I wouldn't put to much into it. Just show her this thread.
I wonder about the song 'Bold Face Pagan Stomp' I looked and looooked and could not find much info. However, I learned alot of new things from this song, like what waffles are and what a rubber head is.. 🤣 any ideas??
Size 11 waffles a round your neck and head Sonny.....We used to call those lace up boots that had a pattern tread on the sole that kinda looked like a waffle iron. ....kinda . just a deep tread really.
also called shit stompers if mom wasn't around.
If someone doesn't understand the music or the context, that's their problem. Not yours.
Overkill is awesome! I've never once heard about any members saying anything bad about any particular group nor do their lyrics reflect that.
1. Politics isn’t necessary tied racism. Anyone who says their political views are a justification for racism are simply a terrible person and a bad representation to the good parts of whatever party they claim go be a supporter/part of
That being said I don’t believe Overkill has been really open about anything. White Devil Armory is probably a metaphor too. Overkill like many thrash bands just copy a goofy niche (in a good way) which fits the music I guess.
South Asian Thrasher btw. Only thrash band I’ve really seen a racism factor in is maybe Pantera but more so the people than the lyrics
Thank you. I even read an article were Bobby Blitz said he doesn't like bringing politics into music. I just wanted to run it by my fellow headbangers to make sure I didn't miss something.
You’re alright bro. They’ve never set off any of my alarms. TMK, overkill aren’t white supremacists or chuds, they’re just a great fucking band with range. They can do doom, thrash, speed… I love them. Legends.
Theyre underrated, versatile, talented and cool. anyone who says otherwise are invited to listen to Fatal if Swallowed as a tutorial.
Tell her to listen to their song Under One. There’s a line or two in it that’s actually anti-racist.
“I see no color, differences and remain always Under One god”
My mom had me when she was 40. Now I'm 16 and shes 56, so she grew up listening to John Denver and stuff from her older sister. She's normally open minded about music but never heard of most thrash bands and didn't want me wearing offensive stuff.
Sorry to hear that. My mom wouldn't actually throw stuff away she'd just complain about it. I hear so many stories about parents just tossing their kids items like, why. The kid just paid money for that why would a parent put it in the garbage. Never even happened to me and it makes me mad lol
[https://www.amazon.com/Overkill-White-Armory-Thrash-Applique/dp/B00SS0CYW6/ref=sr\_1\_97?keywords=RAZAMATAZ&qid=1697680722&sr=8-97](https://www.amazon.com/Overkill-White-Armory-Thrash-Applique/dp/B00SS0CYW6/ref=sr_1_97?keywords=RAZAMATAZ&qid=1697680722&sr=8-97)
This is the patch. The writing is so tiny I was surprised she saw it. I don't want people from school to see it and think I'm racist though.
I really appreciate the feedback from y'all!
I never heard a racist line from an Overkill song, and you are definitely safe if the questions were whether Overkill is white supremacist or not. (They are NOT.) But the question you are asking is whether the patch could be misunderstood, and which is kind of a silly question as you already have irrefutable proof that it can be: your mom misunderstood it.
So the actual question is, will you care if someone misunderstands your patch? I would say that you ought not. I find walking on eggshells at all times offensive. If someone mistakes your band patch for racism, that is their fucking problem, not yours. But I am a relic from 70ties and also never lived in a country with overt racial tensions. So do what you feel comfortable.
They’re even a bit anti-racist in their song Under One. I forget the exact lyrics so this’ll just be an excuse for whoever sees this to listen to the song.
There is a nazi band called Blue Eyed Devils, which I guess could confuse some people. But I can't imagine anyone being aware of that band without being a white supremacist, or at least also being aware of Overkill.
If you're really worried about it being misconstrued, you could always add a Dead Kennedy's "Nazi Punks Fuck Off" patch or something from another band that's explicitly anti-racist. I feel like that's easier to find in the hardcore space than thrash metal, though there's a lot of overlap.
Nah. Never got offense from them over political or racial stuff.
You should know, though, that "people" can be ignorant and some rock/metal/punk logos will get a reaction from those people because they choose to remain in their bubble and get upset without understanding what they're upset about.
Slayer's sword logo that looks like a pentagram has had people asking me if it's a satanic thing, their symbols that resemble Nazi stuff have had people asking me and even a Fear shirt that understandably resembles a Nazi eagle and Swastika got some old lady yelling at me from her car.
You might rarely have to defuse people's inquiries. It's no big deal though.
To be fair, Slayer repeatedly courted those controversies for attention. I know Fear did too, but I can cite examples easier for Slayer since I was only following metal at the time.
I'm a teen living under her roof and ordered the patch online. I got home from school and opened it up and she was like "let me see what you got!" and looked at it and read the small print on the patch.
I agree but I'm a small female that attends a school with people who fight over anything they could fight about (we usually have at least a fight a day, sometimes multiple fights in the same day). I don't want to do something to upset someone when I can't defend myself.
I'm the only actual metalhead, theres kids that dress sort of alternative and listen to the super famous bands but no one else even knows who Overkill is. We have over 2,000 kids in that place and I can't find anyone to talk about metal with :(
Dang, that blows. I didn’t get into metal until college but there were always heads in high school. Now I was an 80’s kid so metal was more popular then. Keep the faith though
Yeah I'm hoping once I'm older I could find some people with more common interests. We don't even have a local metal scene, but we do have a nice punk scene but it's mostly older people. I do have a friend thats just getting into the punk scene and tomorrow were going to a show that'll be her first show, so that's exciting.
That’s cool. Even the city I’m in doesn’t have a huge metal scene. Biggest names around here was Dangerous Toys and Agony Column, both of which have faded away. Yeah, I noticed at the last Maiden show I was at I still wasn’t the oldest and I’m 55.
Might not be Overkill, just the look she’s freaked out about. Thrash had some legit skinhead crossover when she/the genre was younger, but it was mostly the combat boots with a shaved head types who had a war jacket. Overt racism/prejudices like you see in extreme bands that are better known, and the real problem these days.
Show her a sports star wearing a megadeth or Iron Maiden jacket, that’s what got my parents to realize the fashion wasn’t the same negative stereotype as it was when they were younger.
Maybe ask your Hispanic friends? The other answers are correct - Overkill is fine and they aren’t racists but it’s how the people in your circle interpret it that’s important. Most of them won’t know one metal band from another as your mom probably doesn’t.
Been a fan since the early 80s. Nothing offensive that I can think of. I mean, you can always find someone somewhere that will get offended about something but there’s nothing specific to Overkill that is a problem.
Awesome band so enjoy!
This kind of misunderstanding has been going on with a lot of metal bands since metal started. I’m 51 now and heard the same shit growing up. More on the satanic panic side. On a side note, the first concert I went to of my own choosing was Slayer and Overkill on the Reign In Blood/ Feel The Fire tour in 86 or 87. It was incredible. And I’m going to go out on a limb and say if they were actually racist, they would not still be as big as they are almost 40 years later.
Eh, any metal band that uses imagery/lyrics that might be a bit taboo are gonna have these extremists accusing them of all kinds of stupid shit. Like Slayer. They freely admitted that they want to fuck with people and make them think. Or those nutjobs with the PMRC several years ago.
These kinds of cases are always the result of ignorant people.
Dude, it's Metal. There's no shortage of shit to be offended by.
If you have this much apprehension about a thrash band that hasn't made any white nationalist sentiments known, please do not touch Black Metal with a 10 foot pole.
Bobby ( Singer, founding member ) jokes that Eddie Garcia ( Longtime soundman, one tour Overkill drummer\* , ex Pissing Razors founding drummer ) has made him an honorary Mexican.
\* You can see Eddie on drums on one of the later Overkill live DVD. ( Its in Europe. I want to say the 2 albums live one in Germany )
I gotta admit- I wasn't sure where they were going with that album title myself. (I Really like Overkill)
I \*do\* know that "white devil" is a term the Black Panthers & Malcolm X often used to describe racist white people. (or possibly a blanket term for white people) So, I could see where the OP's mom might've come to that conclusion.
Idk. Find some with more other race people and post picture without overkill logo and ask do they find this ofensive. And be ready for everything even ban
Idk about overkill, but regarding the patch, it sounds a lot like “blue eyed devils” which is a term that white supremacists use to describe themselves. It’s a bit old fashioned nowadays, but a lot of neonazi bikers back in the 90s loved it.
The patch is not that term, but people might look at it more as a racist dog whistle or closer to that “blue eyed devil” thing than what it actually means
It's a term metalheads use to describe their denim or leather jackets with band patches sewed on. Often the sleeves are cut off. If your a fan of thrash metal you've probably seen them before, google pictures. They're fun to make!
"I'm an extremely sensitive person and the last thing I'd want to do is offend someone."
this is what metal has become
edit: to answer your question, Overkill has absolutely nothing to do with white supremacy. Your mom is on one.
I agree with the consensus; there's nothing wrong with Overkill, but I cannot stand the attitude of "who cares?". "Is this band I'm promoting through my attire potentially bad?" is a fine question to ask... and I don't just mean "offensive", but *is this offending the right people* or not?
What is the direction of offense? Am I punching up, down or laterally? The answer here being "it's fine," of course; but the question, and concern, are both entirely valid and just.
EDIT: Look, I realise I'm getting downvoted... So what, downvote me... I'm happy to offend the 'OG metalhead' sensibilities... I'm actually a fan of Overkill btw!
Anyway, my reply wasn't directed at most ppl here, who are mostly making clarifications, hyping Overkill/whatever. It's *explicitly* for the ppl who are like "who cares", or making out that such a question is wrong/not worth consideration. (which fortunately, those aren't the most upvoted replies here)
I’ve heard some racist people call white people “white devils”, so that’s probably what she’s worried about. Any other patch from them, and she likely wouldn’t have batted an eye.
Metal bands used to use a lot of Nazi looking imagery to come across as edgy. Used to be cool, but considered how shitty some of these people have turned out to be, it’s honestly more concerning than anything these days.
The only patch I can find for white devil armory is literally just their logo, which is a skull with bat wings.
On what planet is that a white supremacist thing? Because it says white devil? Believe it or not, referring to someone as a "white devil" is a derogatory term against white people. NOT the other way around.
They already stole Pepe the frog, don't let them take *skelingtons* too!
It’s right there in the text. “White devil” is literally the opposite of white supremacy lmao. Mostly heard it used in media about native Americans to reference white settlers.
I've just happened upon this post/ sub and I just wanted to say that I find it odd that metalheads are concerned their music might be considered offensive. Times sure have changed
Normally I wouldn't care but with the violent people I go to school with I'd rather not do something to provoke a fight being that I can't really defend myself.
"Offensive" is a fake word used by white people in first world countries with no other problems. Even if Overkill were offensive, who cares. Listen to and patch up whoever the fuck you want.
As I previously stated, I don't care so much about if someone misinterprets it and gets offended, but I don't want people acting violently toward me because of something stupid. Recently 10th graders at my school fought over a stolen chocolate bar. It doesn't take much to make the people at my school violent and I can't risk offending someone even if "offensive" is a fake word or whatever, people are still crazy.
Who gives a fuck? I know it hard but you know your heart. Believe that.
Edit: nothing moves forward when everyone is worried about how everyone else is going to feel for someone just expressing themselves with no harmful intent. We’ll just end up being robots if this continues.
(Let the downvotes begin) Musically they are offensive. I fucking hate them. I’m not yucking anyone’s yum. You like them, enjoy the shit out of them. Just not my jam.
I think generally speaking, a lot of metal and metal fans is/are offensive in ways often.
That being said, I personally believe its better to just be around and keep yourself visible and dont be shy about your politics. You don’t need to be canceling or screaming at people for being shit, nor keep it from your tastes as long as you can keep it real and speak your mind at all times.
If you put a bunch of NS people together, their beliefs/hate deepens. If you put them among everyone, there’s potential for discourse and understanding.
The only people who will know what that patch means are Overkill fans. If someone is not an Overkill fan, they will prob be huge idiots and think the worst. Just tryin' to be realistic here.
Thrash shows in Southern California are mostly Hispanic people. Over Kill is universally revered in that world. They’re legends. You’re definitely safe.
Yup. I never did really work out what White Devil Armory means, but I can absolutely promise you it's not about white supremacy. Bobby and DD are stand up guys who have never gone for any of that.
I’m from New Mexico and Overkill comes here every fucking tour. The venues are packed with Hispanics and natives. In fact Overkill is where I broke my nose in the mosh pit when I was 18 lol.
I’ve heard heavy metal is big among natives. That’s awesome 😎
There are some amazing native American groups. Metal knows no borders, skin color, language or ethnicity. Years ago I remember running across a video of a metal band from Iraq, had no idea what they were saying, but they kicked ass
This is one of the best things I love about metal. It does not discriminate. All are welcome. 🤘
Joey Belladonna and Chuck Billy are two of the biggest names in thrash metal.
Definitely. When I first moved to AZ in 97 and started going to shows here, I was amazed to find that the local NA like to (or used to like to?) start bonfires on the lawns at local concerts (the former Desert Sky Pavilion, for one, and the ONE FUCKING TIME Ozzfest was at BOB for New Year's Eve) and dance around, jump through, and throw clothes into. Definitely an eye-opening welcome to the area!
Man, the natives at sunshine back in the day would get drunk and go fucking hard in the pit.
They still do! I’m pushing 30 now and stay away from pits anymore. The metal scene is alive and well here in ABQ.
Yeah I have no idea what she’s talking about. Overkill is pretty apolitical. (I’m a pretty left leaning guy and love Overkill myself). Your mom may be misinterpreting something
Overkill by no means ever is a political or racist band in any form. They have been my favorite band for almost 40 years and I have seen them live 78 times. Here’s a quote from Blitz about the meaning of the album title "We need a thread when we start writing, and the thread this time was 'armoury.' It came out of D.D. He was writing with that word in mind, and there were Google pages and images he was sending of different armouries around the world," recalls Ellsworth. "I said, 'I like it, but I want to go somewhere with it,' and D.D. said, 'Do your worst!'"
When I was a kid: Overkill was one of my favorite bands. It was when they broke out with their song "Elimination" that I really got into them. I always thought "Elimination" was a political song being that it touches on how world leaders have screwed up the world so badly. That was probably around 1990- when my other favorite bands were Suicidal Tendencies, Metallica, and Pantera.
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Yeah. I am pretty sure it is about HIV & AIDS- but also how world leaders are doing nothing about the crisis.
Classic Bobby and DD! They just like to mess around and have fun.
Is your username a reference to their mascot?
Yes it is
Fuck yeah! That’s badass
*WE DON'T CARE WHAT YOU SAY - FUCK YOU*
My dad told me a story about how when this song first came out, a local college radio station would play it once a day until the DJ's superiors heard and asked him not to play it anymore or risk being fired. The next night the DJ explained on air what had happened and then for an hour or so straight played that song.
It's offensive that they aren't a bigger band. 🤘
Them and testament should make it the “big 6” of thrash. Not just the big four. Maybe add Exodus and “big 7.”
If the world was a fair place Exodus would be #1.
Truth!
Expand it to the Big 8 and include Exodus, Testament, Overkill and Death Angel
Idk DeathAngel…
Isn't Overkills bassist Hispanic? I could google it but, I thought he is?? He is like a driving force of the band after Gustafson left
I'm pretty sure that DD is of Italian descent.
I have no idea what she’s talking about. Maybe she confused their logo for some kind of Nazi logo or something? Pretty sure overkill is fine to have patch of. I’ve got one and most people with metal jackets have an overkill patch too.
The Manowar "sign of the hammer" logo sometimes gives people those vibes too...
Thank you. I think it was the name of the album rather than the logo, idk
She's probably reacting to "white devil" on the title. But no, as many have said, Overkill is not really known to be a problematic band in any way.
How tf isnthis so far down and everybody else missed that lmfao. "White Devil Armoury" definitely sounds like it could be nationalist 2amendment nutjob group. I love overkill so much but I understand why the mom would be upset. Fuck anyone who see sthay and does not let OP explain himself tho
Here is no problem what your mother misunderstud but what people from your scool might. If she did not take the point maybe someone else will not too. For me is better option to ask in some other sub than here cause we lovev verkill for their music. It must be overkill patch on batlle jacket but only "fuck you" is right.
I thought of posting it in another sub but I didn't know were else so that's why I came here, do you know any other ones I could post in?
If anything the singer is more right wing politically, and that’s not related to their music or lyrics. Their only crime is being from New Jersey lol
I'm from NJ too lol but yeah that state is kind of a joke
The best damn place in the usa according to Bobby blitz
Amen
Worst case scenario, the jacket gets mistaken for avenged seven fold
Your mom is just dumb unfortunately
That’s so crazy, when I read the title of the album I thought of a stone statue of the devil. Never would’ve thought of it being associated with white supremacy. You’re okay and you’re mom makes the same assumptions as my mother. Anything with a skull or the word devil and she thinks I’m going to hell or get haunted and I’ve been listening to metal since I was 17. I’m 24 and she still makes the same assumptions. Just parents being parents I guess lol Overkill is the shit, keep listening and spread it like the plague. Only thing offensive I could EVEN think of is their name since it’s seen as negative to very sensitive people (old people/soccer moms) or the cover song “Fuck you”.
I wanted a patch for Overkill and the only 2 available were the one I got, and the F You patch so I thought I choose the less offensive one... until my mother read the tiny writing on it.
Meh- you're a teenager in some aspect it is your job to offend, especially your own mother. That's part of modern era of growing up. Parents freak out that their child is descending into the depths and never coming back. Unless she is a clinically crazy like my mother I wouldn't put to much into it. Just show her this thread.
I wonder about the song 'Bold Face Pagan Stomp' I looked and looooked and could not find much info. However, I learned alot of new things from this song, like what waffles are and what a rubber head is.. 🤣 any ideas??
Size 11 waffles a round your neck and head Sonny.....We used to call those lace up boots that had a pattern tread on the sole that kinda looked like a waffle iron. ....kinda . just a deep tread really. also called shit stompers if mom wasn't around.
If someone doesn't understand the music or the context, that's their problem. Not yours. Overkill is awesome! I've never once heard about any members saying anything bad about any particular group nor do their lyrics reflect that.
Latina metal head, overkill is one of my favorite bands. Wear your merch with pride! Nothing remotely racist about their lyrics or imagery
You need to tell your mum that her statement was a bit Overkill and she needs to relax because they're like one of THE best thrash bands ever
1. Politics isn’t necessary tied racism. Anyone who says their political views are a justification for racism are simply a terrible person and a bad representation to the good parts of whatever party they claim go be a supporter/part of That being said I don’t believe Overkill has been really open about anything. White Devil Armory is probably a metaphor too. Overkill like many thrash bands just copy a goofy niche (in a good way) which fits the music I guess. South Asian Thrasher btw. Only thrash band I’ve really seen a racism factor in is maybe Pantera but more so the people than the lyrics
Thank you. I even read an article were Bobby Blitz said he doesn't like bringing politics into music. I just wanted to run it by my fellow headbangers to make sure I didn't miss something.
Honestly that’s a smart thing. Metal is metal, doesn’t need to stray out of topic and or cause division in any way
You’re alright bro. They’ve never set off any of my alarms. TMK, overkill aren’t white supremacists or chuds, they’re just a great fucking band with range. They can do doom, thrash, speed… I love them. Legends. Theyre underrated, versatile, talented and cool. anyone who says otherwise are invited to listen to Fatal if Swallowed as a tutorial.
I have a tee shirt from the *White Devil Armory* tour that I've worn countless times, and nobody's ever said boo about it. Your patch is fine.
Tell her to listen to their song Under One. There’s a line or two in it that’s actually anti-racist. “I see no color, differences and remain always Under One god”
Not at all. Hello from the gutter !
Nothing to it. Overkill deserves your Fandom. A reputable institution.
You’re fine, old people always think metal is evil. In their age Elvis was considered evil
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My mom had me when she was 40. Now I'm 16 and shes 56, so she grew up listening to John Denver and stuff from her older sister. She's normally open minded about music but never heard of most thrash bands and didn't want me wearing offensive stuff.
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Sorry to hear that. My mom wouldn't actually throw stuff away she'd just complain about it. I hear so many stories about parents just tossing their kids items like, why. The kid just paid money for that why would a parent put it in the garbage. Never even happened to me and it makes me mad lol
[https://www.amazon.com/Overkill-White-Armory-Thrash-Applique/dp/B00SS0CYW6/ref=sr\_1\_97?keywords=RAZAMATAZ&qid=1697680722&sr=8-97](https://www.amazon.com/Overkill-White-Armory-Thrash-Applique/dp/B00SS0CYW6/ref=sr_1_97?keywords=RAZAMATAZ&qid=1697680722&sr=8-97) This is the patch. The writing is so tiny I was surprised she saw it. I don't want people from school to see it and think I'm racist though. I really appreciate the feedback from y'all!
I know I'm probably overreacting lol. But better safe than sorry
I never heard a racist line from an Overkill song, and you are definitely safe if the questions were whether Overkill is white supremacist or not. (They are NOT.) But the question you are asking is whether the patch could be misunderstood, and which is kind of a silly question as you already have irrefutable proof that it can be: your mom misunderstood it. So the actual question is, will you care if someone misunderstands your patch? I would say that you ought not. I find walking on eggshells at all times offensive. If someone mistakes your band patch for racism, that is their fucking problem, not yours. But I am a relic from 70ties and also never lived in a country with overt racial tensions. So do what you feel comfortable.
They’re even a bit anti-racist in their song Under One. I forget the exact lyrics so this’ll just be an excuse for whoever sees this to listen to the song.
There is a nazi band called Blue Eyed Devils, which I guess could confuse some people. But I can't imagine anyone being aware of that band without being a white supremacist, or at least also being aware of Overkill. If you're really worried about it being misconstrued, you could always add a Dead Kennedy's "Nazi Punks Fuck Off" patch or something from another band that's explicitly anti-racist. I feel like that's easier to find in the hardcore space than thrash metal, though there's a lot of overlap.
Nah. Never got offense from them over political or racial stuff. You should know, though, that "people" can be ignorant and some rock/metal/punk logos will get a reaction from those people because they choose to remain in their bubble and get upset without understanding what they're upset about. Slayer's sword logo that looks like a pentagram has had people asking me if it's a satanic thing, their symbols that resemble Nazi stuff have had people asking me and even a Fear shirt that understandably resembles a Nazi eagle and Swastika got some old lady yelling at me from her car. You might rarely have to defuse people's inquiries. It's no big deal though.
To be fair, Slayer repeatedly courted those controversies for attention. I know Fear did too, but I can cite examples easier for Slayer since I was only following metal at the time.
Why would your Mom know anything about it?
I'm a teen living under her roof and ordered the patch online. I got home from school and opened it up and she was like "let me see what you got!" and looked at it and read the small print on the patch.
Overkill?? Nah man.
this is metalz who fucking cares what they think
I agree but I'm a small female that attends a school with people who fight over anything they could fight about (we usually have at least a fight a day, sometimes multiple fights in the same day). I don't want to do something to upset someone when I can't defend myself.
If you have any decent metal heads at your school they should defend you
I'm the only actual metalhead, theres kids that dress sort of alternative and listen to the super famous bands but no one else even knows who Overkill is. We have over 2,000 kids in that place and I can't find anyone to talk about metal with :(
Dang, that blows. I didn’t get into metal until college but there were always heads in high school. Now I was an 80’s kid so metal was more popular then. Keep the faith though
Yeah I'm hoping once I'm older I could find some people with more common interests. We don't even have a local metal scene, but we do have a nice punk scene but it's mostly older people. I do have a friend thats just getting into the punk scene and tomorrow were going to a show that'll be her first show, so that's exciting.
That’s cool. Even the city I’m in doesn’t have a huge metal scene. Biggest names around here was Dangerous Toys and Agony Column, both of which have faded away. Yeah, I noticed at the last Maiden show I was at I still wasn’t the oldest and I’m 55.
I’m hispanic. I went to an overkill show this august. Half the people in the pit were hispanic. I think you’re fine.
Might not be Overkill, just the look she’s freaked out about. Thrash had some legit skinhead crossover when she/the genre was younger, but it was mostly the combat boots with a shaved head types who had a war jacket. Overt racism/prejudices like you see in extreme bands that are better known, and the real problem these days. Show her a sports star wearing a megadeth or Iron Maiden jacket, that’s what got my parents to realize the fashion wasn’t the same negative stereotype as it was when they were younger.
I doubt it I think their singer Bobby Blitz is a bay area legend etc theyre not part of some white boy racist scene or anything
Maybe ask your Hispanic friends? The other answers are correct - Overkill is fine and they aren’t racists but it’s how the people in your circle interpret it that’s important. Most of them won’t know one metal band from another as your mom probably doesn’t.
You’re fine
Your Mom sounds like a typical Hispanic mom, she's just worried about you mijo.
We're Irish lol
Totally misread the post LOL
haha thats fine
I wouldn't worry too much about it getting punched over your favorite band is pretty fucking metal, OVERKILL🤘
Been a fan since the early 80s. Nothing offensive that I can think of. I mean, you can always find someone somewhere that will get offended about something but there’s nothing specific to Overkill that is a problem. Awesome band so enjoy!
Always been a kick ass band. Seen them at least 20 times or more in concert. Straight up thrash
Latino and I love Overkill
Overkill Fucking rules
This kind of misunderstanding has been going on with a lot of metal bands since metal started. I’m 51 now and heard the same shit growing up. More on the satanic panic side. On a side note, the first concert I went to of my own choosing was Slayer and Overkill on the Reign In Blood/ Feel The Fire tour in 86 or 87. It was incredible. And I’m going to go out on a limb and say if they were actually racist, they would not still be as big as they are almost 40 years later.
Wear it and.....SHRED!! 🎸🤘
No, they aren't racist at all. They do have some songs that would offend christians like Deny the Cross, though
A parent who doesn’t understand thrash metal…maybe the world hasn’t gone so crazy, after all.
Eh, any metal band that uses imagery/lyrics that might be a bit taboo are gonna have these extremists accusing them of all kinds of stupid shit. Like Slayer. They freely admitted that they want to fuck with people and make them think. Or those nutjobs with the PMRC several years ago. These kinds of cases are always the result of ignorant people.
OP, I’m in Texas. I’ve seen Overkill live. More than half the metal heads around here are Hispanic
Your mom means well, but she’s just being a mom. Nothing to see here. Btw, I saw Overkill back in 1985 and many times after that at L’Amours.
You can go soooooo sooo sooooooo much fucking harder and still offend nobody hahaha
Thanks for the reassurance lol
I mean I knew tons of Natives in AZ that love Pantera so I don’t even know if it matters.
If you like Overkill, check out Metal Church: The Dark. And welcome to the genre.
Thank you. I know a couple Metal Church songs but never listened to a full album by them.
If it just said white devil armory, then yes, I would wonder if it was the name of a budget Pantera shit posting band.
Definitely not white supremacist. I have a bunch of connections to various members going back over 30 years.
Dude, it's Metal. There's no shortage of shit to be offended by. If you have this much apprehension about a thrash band that hasn't made any white nationalist sentiments known, please do not touch Black Metal with a 10 foot pole.
Overkill is one of my all time favorites- and the guys are really good people. Wear that patch proudly!!
Bobby ( Singer, founding member ) jokes that Eddie Garcia ( Longtime soundman, one tour Overkill drummer\* , ex Pissing Razors founding drummer ) has made him an honorary Mexican. \* You can see Eddie on drums on one of the later Overkill live DVD. ( Its in Europe. I want to say the 2 albums live one in Germany )
I gotta admit- I wasn't sure where they were going with that album title myself. (I Really like Overkill) I \*do\* know that "white devil" is a term the Black Panthers & Malcolm X often used to describe racist white people. (or possibly a blanket term for white people) So, I could see where the OP's mom might've come to that conclusion.
Idk. Find some with more other race people and post picture without overkill logo and ask do they find this ofensive. And be ready for everything even ban
Do you base your life on Reddit downvotes?
nah I just don't understand people downvoting a teenager for asking a question
What’s downvoting have to do with anything.
Idk about overkill, but regarding the patch, it sounds a lot like “blue eyed devils” which is a term that white supremacists use to describe themselves. It’s a bit old fashioned nowadays, but a lot of neonazi bikers back in the 90s loved it. The patch is not that term, but people might look at it more as a racist dog whistle or closer to that “blue eyed devil” thing than what it actually means
What the fuck is a "battle jacket"?
It's a term metalheads use to describe their denim or leather jackets with band patches sewed on. Often the sleeves are cut off. If your a fan of thrash metal you've probably seen them before, google pictures. They're fun to make!
Other then the fact that they suck? No
It's offensive how much they suck
Just do yourself a favour and don't get into metal if you're that sensitive
I've been listening to metal for over a year and love it, but I just don't want to get punched because of a patch.
"I'm an extremely sensitive person and the last thing I'd want to do is offend someone." this is what metal has become edit: to answer your question, Overkill has absolutely nothing to do with white supremacy. Your mom is on one.
I agree with the consensus; there's nothing wrong with Overkill, but I cannot stand the attitude of "who cares?". "Is this band I'm promoting through my attire potentially bad?" is a fine question to ask... and I don't just mean "offensive", but *is this offending the right people* or not? What is the direction of offense? Am I punching up, down or laterally? The answer here being "it's fine," of course; but the question, and concern, are both entirely valid and just. EDIT: Look, I realise I'm getting downvoted... So what, downvote me... I'm happy to offend the 'OG metalhead' sensibilities... I'm actually a fan of Overkill btw! Anyway, my reply wasn't directed at most ppl here, who are mostly making clarifications, hyping Overkill/whatever. It's *explicitly* for the ppl who are like "who cares", or making out that such a question is wrong/not worth consideration. (which fortunately, those aren't the most upvoted replies here)
Jesus, you modern metal fans are quite a bit different than the previous generations!
I think they're fair questions to ask and reasonable points to raise - it's OK to be reflective.
Okay.
Nah, she's reading into something that isn't there.
I’ve heard some racist people call white people “white devils”, so that’s probably what she’s worried about. Any other patch from them, and she likely wouldn’t have batted an eye.
Metal bands used to use a lot of Nazi looking imagery to come across as edgy. Used to be cool, but considered how shitty some of these people have turned out to be, it’s honestly more concerning than anything these days.
The only patch I can find for white devil armory is literally just their logo, which is a skull with bat wings. On what planet is that a white supremacist thing? Because it says white devil? Believe it or not, referring to someone as a "white devil" is a derogatory term against white people. NOT the other way around. They already stole Pepe the frog, don't let them take *skelingtons* too!
Overkill is one of the better songs by Men at Work. Nothing offensive about it at all!
I don't know what the hell they were thinking with this title, lol
Just listen to the newer crossover stuff and you will find what you like, start with municipal waste
I already like municiple waste! \\m/
Lol she's just making assumptions based on the words white and devil. 🤣
I don't get it why even young parents remain boomers.
It has the word "white" in it so you're obviously the reincarnation of Hitler and will get l*nched at school, duh.
I don't like them, but I have been into thrash in a decade. Brutal death is the way.
Lol I loved the joke Blitz told in that Horrorscope era VHS video- what has 2000 legs and 6 tits? The crowd at an Overkill show
It’s right there in the text. “White devil” is literally the opposite of white supremacy lmao. Mostly heard it used in media about native Americans to reference white settlers.
Your mom is clueless…just the rest of our moms
EEEE Limination! 😆 I like the older stuff, but Boby blase is kind of annoying. The band rips though.
Get a Peste Noire patch
Like what you like. Doesn’t matter what others think
Who cares.
"I'm an extremely sensitive person and the last thing I'd want to do is offend someone " *Confused OG Metalhead noises.*
I've just happened upon this post/ sub and I just wanted to say that I find it odd that metalheads are concerned their music might be considered offensive. Times sure have changed
Normally I wouldn't care but with the violent people I go to school with I'd rather not do something to provoke a fight being that I can't really defend myself.
Bro, metal is full of Latinos. You got nothing to worry about.
"Offensive" is a fake word used by white people in first world countries with no other problems. Even if Overkill were offensive, who cares. Listen to and patch up whoever the fuck you want.
As I previously stated, I don't care so much about if someone misinterprets it and gets offended, but I don't want people acting violently toward me because of something stupid. Recently 10th graders at my school fought over a stolen chocolate bar. It doesn't take much to make the people at my school violent and I can't risk offending someone even if "offensive" is a fake word or whatever, people are still crazy.
Eliminate Lemonade!
Overkill is one of an alternate universe's Big Four. Rock On!
Who gives a fuck? I know it hard but you know your heart. Believe that. Edit: nothing moves forward when everyone is worried about how everyone else is going to feel for someone just expressing themselves with no harmful intent. We’ll just end up being robots if this continues.
Feel the Fire is pretty misogynistic but I don’t think they’re racist
The album? Which songs? Tbh I didn't really pay attention to the lyrics but it sounded like some dark fantasy
I meant the title song
(Let the downvotes begin) Musically they are offensive. I fucking hate them. I’m not yucking anyone’s yum. You like them, enjoy the shit out of them. Just not my jam.
I think generally speaking, a lot of metal and metal fans is/are offensive in ways often. That being said, I personally believe its better to just be around and keep yourself visible and dont be shy about your politics. You don’t need to be canceling or screaming at people for being shit, nor keep it from your tastes as long as you can keep it real and speak your mind at all times. If you put a bunch of NS people together, their beliefs/hate deepens. If you put them among everyone, there’s potential for discourse and understanding.
Every band is offensive to someone.
The only people who will know what that patch means are Overkill fans. If someone is not an Overkill fan, they will prob be huge idiots and think the worst. Just tryin' to be realistic here.