Overzealous is a group that hearkens back what is now uncommon in rock music: they produce songs, not a lamentation on negative feelings that seems to prevail in today’s world. Their music is hard but feels good. Their sound can in some ways be seen as an homage to the pedigree of Knoxville, their hometown: one of their major influences is Superdrag, another fine band from the South. They even draw their music from groups like the Beatles and especially John Lennon’s music in particular. However, ultimately Overzealous has its own, unique sound; one that is dedicated to a catchy, melodiously infused music.
“Apples and Girls” is a tune that is extremely memorable. The guitar riff sets up a wonderful entrance while the drums and bass set up a properly party-like atmosphere for the lead singer.
“This Old Man” channels Led Zeppelin in its hard-hitting yet tuneful sensation. It seems to be a expression of grief over old age but is presented in such a cheerful, jovial way that it almost becomes an affirmation that old age is just as enjoyable as young life.
“Big City Postcards” most reminds one of John Lennon’s later music with a little Nirvana thrown in. Listening to the song is just like receiving a postcard from any big city; the guitar solo at the end somehow radiates how relaxing and yet angst-ridden it may be to come home to an apartment in downtown anywhere and attempt to unwind while the world outside bustles with life.
overzealous began w/ members Dustin Sellers and Brad Crittenden in 2001 with the release of a complete full length album done entirely by the two founding members. Sellers provided drums, vocals, harmonies and guitar, while Crittenden offered songs, lead guitar, and bass on selective tunes. After migrating to the Nashville area overzealous became a 4 piece with the addition of a drummer and bassist.
The band gained momentum fairly quickly by winning a Battle of the Bands which lead to recording time and later a production deal with Wolf Studios in Nashville. Favorites from the first official release of the overzealous EP included, "Hannah," "Cool With You," "Gifted," and "One Day Lover."
The band continued to play shows around the south while gaining a fanbase and building a diverse catalog of material. Highlights from early shows include the Foothills Fall Festival where overzealous opened for acts like Emerson Drive, Vince Gill and Mickey Dolenz from the Monkees. overzealous was also invited to play the Midwest Music Summit at the Hard Rock Cafe in Indianapolis, IN.
Later, overzealous caught the eyes and ears of tv and movie producer Brad Kimmel of Bradley David productions. Kimmel liked the look and material of overzealous so much that he hired the band to perform 5 original songs for an independent film idea he had called Novem which released in 2005. overzealous also starred in the film: playing members of a 70's college band who tragically die in a van accident after a week of recording in the summer of 73'. The film has won several awards at indy film fests across the US.
Respect Award for Feature Film
- Aarhus Festival of Independant Arts, 2006
Jury Prize for Best American Independent Feature
- Sonoma Valley Film Festival, 2006
Audience Choice Award
- Beloit International Film Festival, 2006
Grand Jury Prize | Best Competition Feature
- Bethel Film Festival, 2005
Audience Choice Award
- Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival, 2005
Audience Choice Award
- Phoenix Film Festival, 2005
Best Soundtrack Award - Phoenix Film Festival, 2005
Best Indiana Film - Indianapolis Film Festival, 2005
Special Jury Prize | Best Cast Performance
- Indianapolis Film Festival, 2005
Grand Jury Prize | Best Competition Feature
- Indianapolis Film Festival, 2005
overzealous has also had to face some unfortunate circumstances however. Crittenden was diagnosed with cancer and would have to leave the band for a period of time. Plus, original bass player Tim Adler was shipped off to fight the war in Iraq. Plus, Sellers and Crittenden had difficulties keeping permanent members with the same drive and ambition to make something happen in the music business.
The music from overzealous has always been the key to their success and potential. Regardless of all the ups and downs overzealous has been able to maintain a fanbase and continued to write many more songs to create a catalog of well over 100 original songs.
Currently the band has recorded another EP with producer Paul Hart. The EP was recorded at Sony on Music Row in Nashville over Christmas break 08'. overzealous will release the album in Spring/Summer 09' with a re-invented drive, and many tour dates to back it up.
overzealous has come full circle and back to its roots with the reins in the hands of founding members Sellers and Crittenden.