Artist Spotlight: Alestorm

Alestorm: Biography Alestorm is the swashbuckling force of pirate metal, a genre-blending quintet that sails the high seas of heavy metal with unmatched bravado. Formed in 2004 in Perth, Scotland, Alestorm originally went by the name Battleheart before adopting their more piratical moniker in 2007. The brainchild of lead vocalist and keytarist Christopher Bowes, Alestorm has captivated audiences with their raucous mix of power metal, folk, and seafaring lore. Boasting a discography that began with their debut album, “Captain Morgan’s Revenge” (2008), Alestorm has consistently delivered albums rich with ironclad riffs and raucous seaworthy anthems. Subsequent releases like “Black Sails at Midnight” (2009) and “Back Through Time” (2011) solidified their status as the undisputed marauders of metal. Each album is a whirlwind of nautical narratives and infectious energy, intermarried with Bowes’ signature humor. One example song that encapsulates Alestorm’s spirit is “Drink”, from their 2014 album “Sunset on the Golden Age”. The song is an anthem of hedonistic revelry, laden with catchy choruses, galloping rhythms, and bombastic keytar passages. It’s the quintessential Alestorm track: loud, boisterous, and unashamedly fun. Alestorm’s influence extends beyond their recorded oeuvre. Their live shows are a rowdy affair, complete with pirate costumes, inflatable ducks, and endless crowd participation. The band has garnered a devoted following, known as the “Alestorm Army,” and their concerts are nothing short of communal celebrations of debauchery and camaraderie. Despite their seemingly gimmicky facade, Alestorm demonstrates legitimate musical chops and a flair for storytelling, offering a unique and enduring contribution to the metal landscape. With each release, they continue to chart new courses and win hearts across the globe, proving that pirate metal is here to stay.