All set to embark on yet another journey aboard Captain Chris Bowes’ insane ship. After the release of the crazy hit album “Sunset on the Golden Age” back in 2014, the Scottish pirates Alestorm are back with their high spirits roaming on this fifth album “No Grave But the Sea”.
This journey begins with a solid title track. This assures the listener that Alestorm intend to use the same heavy and festive formula that they are already accustomed to present on previous records. After this, the band takes us south to the land of the tacos and margaritas, where we put on our hats and have fun all night «Yo! Ho! Mexico”! “To the end of the world” showcases an excellent set of melodic arrangements. The keytar and the harsh vocals of Christopher Bowes are on the main features in the track named “Alestorm”. Basically it defines all that the pirates need “Rum, beer, quests and mead”.
As this trip continues, raise up the tankard and listen to the melodious rhythms of “Bar ünd Imbiss”. As the barrels become almost empty, the happy and hilarious “Fucked With An Anchor” comes along. This is, undoubtedly, the most foolish and funny song ever written by Alestorm, and is one of the great highlights of the album. “Pegleg Potion” grabs our attention with its captivating riffs and is followed by another nautical song with catchy a chorus: “Man the Pumps”. “Rage of the Pentahook” is about a man from Paraguay who had five hooks instead of his hand.
After sailing through the seven seas, we end this trip by finding “Treasure Island”. Suiting the title, a very epic beginning with veiled guitars, and happy choirs, yet it isn’t enough to be a memorable track.
“No Grave But The Sea” is effective on cheering the fans, while having fun with nautical melodies. It proves that they have not run out of ideas to write good lyrics and make songs that entertain the listener and set free the pirate in him. However, many of the riffs and melodies are inspired by older songs such as “Wenches&Mead”, “Captain Morgan’s Revenge” and “Nancy the Tavern Wench”. However, this leaves us with a feeling that some fresh ideas are needed.
7/10
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