Maximum Metal Rating Legend

After 2008 saw Alestorm's Captain Morgan's Revenge debut to much critical acclaim, the swashbucklers have wasted no time shooting back across 2009's bow with a quick, "tide-over", 4-song EP entitled Leviathan. A new song (Leviathan), a cover (Wolves of the Sea), a German version of Wenches & Mead from their debut, and a re-recording of an early era song (Heavy Metal Pirates) comprise this high seas adventure.

There's not much to say here except that if you liked the full-length, you'll dig this as well. These guys are steadfastly unabashed in their quest to combine traditional English folk melodies with heavy metal, and it sure sounds like they're having a hearty good time while doing so. Therein lies the intrigue, they simply don't take themselves seriously, or rather, they're exceptionally serious about having fun. There are plenty of speedy riffs and leads to keep the interest of the more serious metalhead, yet the melodies are catchy, fun, and convincingly wrought. Tales of sea creatures, wenches, and pirate egos are the order of the day lyrically speaking, and it all culminates in an exciting, albeit short, 17 minute adventure this time out.

Let's face it, us metalheads can take ourselves and our music too seriously at times, so every now and then it's fun to unearth a treasure like this to cut loose to. So, grab the nearest wench, hoist the skull and crossbones, and imbibe exuberantly to Alestorm!