Napalm Records
Release: 20 June 2025
Line Up:
Christopher Bowes – Vocals, Keytar
Gareth Murdock – Bass
Máté Bodor – Guitar
Peter Alcorn – Drums
Elliot Vernon – Keyboard
Tracklist:
1. Hyperion Omniriff
2. Killed to Death by Piracy
3. Banana
4. Frozen Piss 2
5. The Storm
6. Mountains of the Deep
7. Goblins Ahoy!
8. Mega-Supreme Treasure of the Eternal Thunderfist
Calling Alestorm’s mastery of their pop-infused party pirate metal formula merely successful would be selling them short. Chris Bowes explains how what once stood out as unique at festivals now sees nine other bands incorporating techno-driven beats into their sound to energize crowds. This shift has prompted Alestorm to mature somewhat. While silly elements persist (more on this shortly), their latest album features the brilliantly intricate Hyperion Omniriff (quite the title), which not only ranks as Chris’s album favorite but likely represents their most sophisticated composition yet.
The track weaves an excellent narrative where the lyric sheet becomes invaluable, demonstrating Alestorm’s equal capability with serious pirate themes as with comedic ones. This serious approach finds further validation in the monumental album finale Mega-Supreme Treasure Of The Eternal Thunderfist, which spans 17 minutes and serves as Alestorm’s answer to Rime of the Ancient Mariner. Time will tell whether this album achieves the same legendary status as Powerslave three decades from now, but it undoubtedly stands as Alestorm’s most unified and well-structured release to date.
Naturally, they still indulge in absurdity, nowhere more evident than on Banana – a track I hope becomes a live staple since it’s arguably their most entertaining and infectious song yet, complete with lyrics about unconventional uses for one’s tailpipe that perfectly align with fan expectations.
Behind seemingly ridiculous song titles lie surprisingly insightful and contemplative lyrics on select tracks, with Frozen Piss II serving as a prime example. Despite its foolish appearance, the track actually delivers an exceptionally compelling narrative. This storytelling quality truly defines this Alestorm release. Featuring violin, hurdy gurdy (with Patty’s vocals returning), Japanese lyrics, pirate tales and more, it strikes an ideal balance between absurd and serious elements, all unified by some of the finest folk-influenced metal imaginable.
Should Alestorm continue in this direction, they have countless years of success ahead of them.
Score 9/10
Reviewed by Adrian Hextall
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