Alestorm

The band was founded in 2004 in Perth, Scotland as Battleheart, a studio project by Christopher Bowes and Gavin Harper.{{cite web |url=http://www.musicmight.com/artist/united+kingdom/perth+and+kinross/alestorm |publisher=MusicMight |title=Alestorm|access-date=30 June 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120928091831/http://www.musicmight.com/artist/united+kingdom/perth+and+kinross/alestorm |archive-date=28 September 2012 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/artist/alestorm-mn0000950099/biography|title=Alestorm Biography|last=True|first=Chris|publisher=AllMusic|access-date=24 March 2011}}{{cite web|url=http://warmonkey.net/andy/2009/08/alestorm-interview-270409/ |title=Alestorm Interview, 27/04/09 | 18 & Life |access-date=2009-12-13 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110724124042/http://warmonkey.net/andy/2009/08/alestorm-interview-270409/ |archive-date=24 July 2011 }} Originally intended as a standard power metal band, the success of song "Heavy Metal Pirates" convinced the band to permanently adopt a pirate theme and incorporate folk metal elements into their music. Gavin and Christopher recorded and released two demos in 2006, which were received well by the local metal community.{{cite web|url=http://www.metalreviews.com/reviews/album/3640 |title=Battleheart – Terror on the High Seas |website=Metalreviews.com |date=2007-01-19 |access-date=2017-05-25}} The band began to perform live in 2006, with a lineup consisting of Bowes (vocals and keytar), Harper (guitars), Dani Evans (bass) and Doug Swierczek (drums). Doug Swierczek eventually left the band later that year and was replaced by Ian Wilson. After a period of inactivity, in late 2007 Battleheart sent the aforementioned demos to Napalm Records. The band was quickly offered a record deal.

File:Alestorm at Bloodstock Open Air 2008.jpg

After being signed by Napalm Records, the band changed their name from Battleheart to Alestorm. Their debut studio album, Captain Morgan's Revenge, was released in early 2008.{{cite web |author=Bowar, Chad |publisher=About.com |url=http://heavymetal.about.com/od/cdreviews/fr/alestormcaptain.htm |title=Alestorm – Captain Morgan's Revenge review |access-date=30 June 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100526162746/http://heavymetal.about.com/od/cdreviews/fr/alestormcaptain.htm |archive-date=26 May 2010 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web |url=http://www.napalmrecords.com/hp_promo.php?bioID=89 |title=Napalm Records Online Store – Heavy Metal & Rock CDs, Vinyl, Merch Mailorder |website=Napalmrecords.com |access-date=2017-05-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090509101338/http://www.napalmrecords.com/hp_promo.php?bioID=89 |archive-date=9 May 2009 |url-status=dead}}{{cite web|first=Eduardo|last=Rivadavia|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/captain-morgans-revenge-mw0000582439|title=Alestorm Captain Morgan's Revenge|website=AllMusic|access-date=8 January 2020}}{{cite web|url=http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=88462 |title=BLABBERMOUTH.NET - ALESTORM Confirmed for Germany's ROCK HARZ Festival |access-date=2008-02-01 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080210061553/http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=88462 |archive-date=10 February 2008 }} The album featured the drummer of the band Incubator, Migo Wagner as the session drummer. The album was also produced by Incubator guitarist Lasse Lammert.

In April 2008, the band released the single "Heavy Metal Pirates". They also played the UK festival Bloodstock, alongside headliners Nightwish and Dimmu Borgir.{{Cite web |title=Band Line Up - 2008 - Bloodstock Heavy metal festival band line and metal band biographies {{!}} Bloodstock |url=https://www.bloodstock.uk.com/events/boa-2008/stages |access-date=2024-09-20 |website=www.bloodstock.uk.com}} Drummer Ian Wilson left in June 2008 and later rejoined in August of the same year. By September 2008, original guitarist Gavin Harper had left the band.{{cite web|author=Lunarfall|url=https://www.sputnikmusic.com/news/7384/Gavin-Harper-Leaves-Alestorm/|title=Gavin Harper Leaves Alestorm|website=Sputnikmusic|date=September 14, 2008|access-date=21 October 2020}} Tim Shaw was Harper's replacement, but after a brief period of touring, was fired from the band.{{cite news|url=http://www.metalstorm.net/events/news_comments.php?news_id=7267|title=Alestorm - Already Announce New Guitarist|work=Metal Storm|date=16 September 2008|access-date=21 October 2020}}{{cite news|url=https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/alestorm-announces-new-guitarist/|title=Alestorm Announces New Guitarist|work=Blabbermouth.net|date=16 September 2008|access-date=21 October 2020}} To fill the guitarist position, Dani Evans switched instruments from bass to guitar, and Gareth Murdock of Waylander joined as the replacement bassist.{{cite news|author=Josh Hart|url=https://www.guitarworld.com/features/interview-dani-evans-and-christopher-bowes-alestorm|title=Interview: Dani Evans and Christopher Bowes of Alestorm|work=Guitar World|date=9 June 2011|access-date=21 October 2020}}{{cite news|url=https://thevoidreport.com/2018/09/29/interview-alestorms-gareth-murdock-talks-touring-life-band-history-pizza-beer/|title=Interview: Alestorm's Gareth Murdock Talks Touring Life, Band History, Pizza, & Beer|work=The Void Report|date=29 September 2018|access-date=21 October 2020}}

The band's second studio album Black Sails at Midnight was released in May 2009.{{cite web |first=James Christopher |last=Monger |title=Review: Black Sails at Midnight |url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/black-sails-at-midnight-mw0000819714|publisher=Allmusic |access-date=21 December 2009}}Kerswell, Ronnie (June 2009). "Alestorm – Black Sails at Midnight." Rock Sound (123): 80. {{ISSN|1465-0185}}. The album peaked at #60 on the GfK Entertainment charts.{{cite web|url=http://www.napalmrecords.com/company/charteinstiege/|title=Napalm Records : Chart Entries|website=Napalmrecords.com|access-date=22 July 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150408044323/http://www.napalmrecords.com/company/charteinstiege/|archive-date=8 April 2015|url-status=dead}} In March 2010, Ian Wilson left the band and was replaced with a new drummer named Peter Alcorn.{{cite web|url=http://www.metalstorm.net/events/news_comments.php?news_id=10582|title=Alestorm - Drummer Abandoned Ship|publisher=Metal Storm|date=10 March 2010|access-date=21 October 2020}}[http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=155504] 'Back Through Time' Album Details www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net[https://www.facebook.com/notes/alestorm/announcing-the-3rd-alestorm-album-back-through-time/172409262793737] Official announcement of Alestorm's 3rd studio album (Facebook){{cite web|url=http://www.soundworkstouring.com/australia/tour/47.php |title=Soundworks Touring - ALESTORM 'BACK THROUGH TIME' Australian/ New Zealand Tour May 2011 |access-date=2011-03-23 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110514141702/http://www.soundworkstouring.com/australia/tour/47.php |archive-date=14 May 2011 }} Alestorm 'Back Through Time' Australian/ New Zealand Tour May 2011 www.soundworkstouring.com Alestorm's third album, Back Through Time, was Alcorn's first appearance on an Alestorm album.{{cite web|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/back-through-time-mw0002132976|title=Back Through Time|website=AllMusic|access-date=17 January 2020}}

On June 3, 2011 Alestorm went on a Back Through Time World Tour starting in Australia and New Zealand.{{cite web|url=http://www.voltagemedia.com.au/news/2011/02/01/alestorm-australian-and-new-zealand-tour-2011 |title=ALESTORM Australian and New Zealand Tour 2011 | VoltageMedia |access-date=2011-03-23 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120308170637/http://www.voltagemedia.com.au/news/2011/02/01/alestorm-australian-and-new-zealand-tour-2011 |archive-date=8 March 2012 }} Australian and New Zealand Tour 2011 www.voltagemedia.com.au[http://www.liveguide.com.au/Tours/687038/Alestorm/Alestorm_Back_Through_Time_Australian_Tour] Australian Tour www.liveguide.com.au The album reached #42 on the German Albums Chart.[http://acharts.us/album/63920 Alestorm - Back Through Time]{{cite web|url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/alestorm-s-back-through-time-lands-on-german-chart/|title=Alestorm's 'Back Through Time' Lands on German Chart|website=Blabbermouth.net|date=17 June 2011}} In October 2011, Elliot Vernon joined the band as keyboard player and also performed screamed / death metal vocals.{{cite news|author=Eric Mackinnon|url=https://www.loudersound.com/news/alestorm-all-we-wanted-was-to-play-in-wee-pubs|title=Alestorm: All we wanted was to play in wee pubs|work=Metal Hammer|date=3 July 2014|access-date=21 October 2020}}{{cite web|url=http://groovey.tv/alestorm-interview-vans-warped-tour-denver-2017/|title=Alestorm Interview: Vans Warped Tour Denver 2017|date=3 July 2017|access-date=21 October 2020}}

The band released their fourth record entitled "Sunset on the Golden Age" on 1 August 2014,{{cite web|url=http://www.alestorm.net/index.php?page=news|title=Alestorm – Bacon Powered Pirate Core|work=alestorm.net|access-date=9 February 2014|archive-date=21 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180621143655/http://www.alestorm.net/index.php?page=news|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|author=swatata|url=http://www.metalstorm.net/pub/review.php?review_id=13659|title=Alestorm - Sunset On The Golden Age review|work=Metal Storm|date=10 November 2020|access-date=21 October 2020}} reaching the #1 position in the UK Rock Chart.{{cite web|url=http://www.officialcharts.com/charts/rock-and-metal-albums-chart/20140810/112/ |title=Official Rock & Metal Albums Chart Top 40 {{!}} Official Charts Company |website=officialcharts.com |date=2014-08-10 |access-date=2018-06-21}}

Dani Evans retired from the band in April 2015,{{cite web|url=http://metaltalk.net/news2015sg/2015160.php |title=Breaking News: Guitarist Dani Evans Leaves Alestorm |website=Metaltalk.net |date=2015-04-19 |access-date=2017-05-25}} and was replaced by Hungarian guitarist Máté Bodor of the band Wisdom, who is also a part of Leander Kills.{{cite web |url=http://www.shockmagazin.hu/hirek/tavozik-a-leander-killsbol-bodor-mate|title=Távozik a Leander Killsből Bodor Máté |date=16 January 2017 |work=Shockmagazin.hz}}

File:Alestorm_Landscape_2017.jpg

In October 2016, Christopher Bowes announced during a concert on the Super Smashed Turbo Tour that the band planned to begin recording a fifth studio album in January 2017.{{Citation needed|date=October 2020}} The fifth record, entitled "No Grave But the Sea", was released on 26 May 2017.{{Cite news|url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/cdreviews/no-grave-but-the-sea/|title=No Grave But the Sea - Alestorm|date=2017-06-05|work=Blabbermouth.net|access-date=6 June 2018|language=en-US}} The album peaked at #1 on Billboard's Top Heatseekers Albums chart.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/music/alestorm|title=Alestorm|magazine=Billboard|access-date=24 January 2018}}

On 8 January 2020, the band announced the title of their sixth studio album, "Curse of the Crystal Coconut".{{Cite news|url=https://www.loudersound.com/news/alestorm-swing-back-into-action-with-curse-of-the-crystal-coconut|title=Alestorm swing back into action with Curse Of The Crystal Coconut|date=8 January 2020|work=Metal Hammer|access-date=9 January 2020}}{{Cite news|url=https://loudwire.com/alestorm-treasure-chest-party-quest-video-curse-of-the-crystal-coconut-album/|title=Alestorm Go on 'Treasure Chest Party Quest' in New Video, Announce Sixth Album|author=Joe DiVita|date=2 April 2020|work=Loudwire|access-date=26 May 2020|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.blabbermouth.net/news/alestorm-to-release-curse-of-the-crystal-coconut-album-in-may/|title=Alestorm To Release 'Curse Of The Crystal Coconut' Album In May|date=6 March 2020|work=Blabbermouth|access-date=26 May 2020|language=en-US}} This was released on 29 May 2020. On 30 April, the band released an EP titled, "The Treasure Chest EP".{{Cite news|url=http://www.metalstorm.net/bands/album.php?album_id=113756&band_id=&bandname=Alestorm|title=Alestorm - The Treasure Chest EP|work=Metal Storm|access-date=22 October 2020}} Prior to the album's release, Alestorm released the singles "Treasure Chest Party Quest" on 2 April 2020, "Tortuga" (feat. Captain Yarrface of Rumahoy) on 23 April 2020, and "Fannybaws" on 14 May 2020.{{Cite news|url=https://distortedsoundmag.com/alestorm-release-new-music-video-for-tortuga/|title=Alestorm release new music video for 'Tortuga'|author=James Weaver|date=23 April 2020|work=Distorted Sound Magazine|access-date=26 May 2020|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.deadpress.co.uk/news-alestorm-release-video-for-new-song-fannybaws/|title=News: Alestorm release video for new song, 'Fannybaws'!|author=Zach Redrup|date=16 May 2020|work=Dead Press|access-date=26 May 2020|language=en-US|archive-date=17 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200817033836/https://www.deadpress.co.uk/news-alestorm-release-video-for-new-song-fannybaws/|url-status=dead}} The fourth single for the album titled, "Pirate Metal Drinking Crew" was released on 29 May 2020.{{Cite news|url=https://nextmosh.com/alestorm-unleash-new-song-video-pirate-metal-drinking-crew/|title=Alestorm unleash new song/video "Pirate Metal Drinking Crew"|date=29 May 2020|work=Next Mosh|access-date=31 May 2020|language=en-US}} The album peaked at #68 on the Official Albums Chart.{{cite web|url=https://www.officialcharts.com/charts/albums-chart/20200605/7502/|title=Official Albums Chart Top 100|work=Official Charts Company|access-date=21 October 2020}} A deluxe version of the album includes the normal track listing, along with what is referred to as "16th Century Version" editions of each track was released.{{Cite news|url=https://rocknloadmag.com/news/alestorm-releases-new-single-official-video-tortuga/|title=Alestorm Releases New Single & Official Video "Tortuga"|date=23 April 2020|work=Rock 'N' Load|access-date=31 May 2020|language=en-US|archive-date=21 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200621081310/https://rocknloadmag.com/news/alestorm-releases-new-single-official-video-tortuga/|url-status=dead}} On 6 August, The Wooden Box was released and it included two bonus tracks on a 7-inch Single which are "Big Ship Little Ship" and "Bassline Junkie".{{Cite news|url=http://www.metalstorm.net/bands/album.php?album_id=117888&band_id=2786&bandname=Alestorm|title=Alestorm - Big Ship Little Ship / Bassline Junkie Single|date=6 August 2020|access-date=21 October 2020|language=en-US}}{{Cite news|url=http://bravewords.com/news/alestorm-release-new-single-big-ship-little-ship-music-video-streaming|title=Alestorm Release New Single "Big Ship Little Ship"; Music Video Streaming|publisher=Brave Words|date=6 August 2020|access-date=21 October 2020|language=en-US}} On 28 May 2021, the band released their second live album, "Live in Tilburg".{{cite web|title=Live at the End of the World|url=https://bravewords.com/news/alestorm-announce-live-in-tilburg-multi-format-release|publisher=Brave Words|date=25 February 2021|access-date=27 February 2021}}

In August 2021, a Twitter account named "GloryhammerC" posted screenshots of what appeared to be an internal chat from 2017 between the members of the band Gloryhammer, of whom vocalist Chris Bowes was a keyboardist and founding member, that showed misogynist and racist humour along with several racial slurs.{{cite web | url=https://loudwire.com/alleged-leaked-chat-gloryhammer-misogynists-racists/ | title=Alleged Leaked Group Chats Suggest Gloryhammer Are Misogynists + Obscene Racists | website=Loudwire | date=25 August 2021 }} Bassist Vincent Jackson Jones of Aether Realm, who formerly collaborated with Bowes in the band Wizardthrone, released a statement on 26 August 2021, in which he distanced himself professionally from Bowes and urged Bowes to make his own statement; at the time, none of Gloryhammer's members had made public comments on the issue. Subsequently, Aether Realm, who were due to tour with both bands, were replaced with the Bootyard Bandits.{{cite web | url=https://loudwire.com/chris-bowes-bandmante-urges-statement-gloryhammer-leaked-chat-misogyny-racism | title=Chris Bowes' Bandmate Urges Musician to Make Statement in Wake of Obscene Gloryhammer Leaked Chat | website=Loudwire | date=26 August 2021 }} On 5 September 2021, Bowes and the rest of the band released statements, admitting the leaked chat was true and apologizing for the remarks.{{cite web | url=https://loudwire.com/gloryhammer-chris-bowes-response-statements-racism-misogyny-leaked-chat/ | title=Gloryhammer + Chris Bowes Finally Issue Responses to Racist + Misogynistic Leaked Chat | website=Loudwire | date=3 September 2021 }}

On 16 January 2022, the band announced that they entered the studio to record their seventh studio album, Seventh Rum of a Seventh Rum.{{Cite news|url=https://bravewords.com/news/alestorm-begin-recording-new-album-seventh-rum-of-a-seventh-rum|title=Alestorm Begin Recording New Album, Seventh Rum Of A Seventh Rum|work=Brave Words|date=16 January 2022|access-date=16 January 2022|language=en-US}} On 31 January 2022, the band released a music video for the song "Zombies Ate My Pirate Ship", a song from their sixth album, "Curse of the Crystal Coconut".{{Cite news|url=https://nextmosh.com/alestorm-release-zombies-ate-my-pirate-ship-performance-video/|title=Alestorm release "Zombies Ate My Pirate Ship" performance video|work=Next Mosh|date=2 February 2022|access-date=2 February 2022|language=en-US}} On 13 March 2022, the band announced that their seventh studio album will be released on 24 June 2022.{{Cite news|url=https://www.metalsucks.net/2022/03/13/alestorm-announce-new-album-seventh-rum-of-a-seventh-rum/|title=Alestorm Announce New Album Seventh Rum of a Seventh Rum|work=MetalSucks|date=13 March 2022|access-date=13 March 2022|language=en-US}} On 6 April 2022, the band released the lead single, "Magellan's Expedition".{{Cite news|first=Greg|last=Kennelty|url=https://metalinjection.net/video/alestorm-sails-along-on-new-single-magellans-expedition|title=Alestorm Sails Along On New Single "Magellan's Expedition"|work=Metal Injection|date=6 April 2022|access-date=6 April 2022|language=en-US}} On 4 May 2022, the band released the second single, "P.A.R.T.Y.".{{Cite news|url=https://bravewords.com/news/alestorm-release-p-a-r-t-y-single-and-music-video|title=Alestorm Release "P.A.R.T.Y." Single And Music Video|work=Brave Words|date=4 May 2022|access-date=4 May 2022|language=en-US}} On 1 June 2022, the band released the third single, "The Battle of Cape Fear River.{{Cite news|url=https://heavymag.com.au/alestorm-return-to-battle-on-new-music/|title=Alestorm Return To Battle On new Music|work=Heavy Magazine|date=3 June 2022|access-date=4 June 2022|language=en-US}} On 22 June 2022, the band released the fourth single, "Seventh Rum of a Seventh Rum".{{cite web|url=https://metalstorm.net/events/news_comments.php?news_id=46478|title=Alestorm - Drop New Single & Video|work=Metal Storm|date=22 June 2022|access-date=22 June 2022}}

File:Alestorm - Wacken Open Air 2023 26.jpg]]

In June 2022, the band was criticised by several sources {{cite web | url=https://www.metalsucks.net/2022/06/12/alestorm-accused-of-telling-palestinian-activist-urging-them-to-cancel-tel-aviv-gig-to-come-and-drink-rum/ | title=Alestorm Accused of Telling Palestinian Activist Urging Them to Cancel Tel Aviv Gig to "Come and Drink Rum" | date=12 June 2022 }}{{cite web | url=https://loudwire.com/alestorm-offensive-reply-palestinian-activist-cancel-tel-aviv-show/ | title=Alestorm Send Offensive Reply to Palestinian Activist Asking Band to Cancel Tel Aviv Show | website=Loudwire | date=13 June 2022 }} for playing a gig in Tel Aviv due to the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. After a fan messaged them on social media explaining they could not attend the gig due to Israeli checkpoints, the band responded the fan should, 'come and drink RUM,' [sic]. This led to some {{cite web | url=https://www.instagram.com/eye.on.palestine/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=d36ffbc7-3cba-4984-b60b-01af112814b1 | title=Instagram }} accusing the band of downplaying the seriousness of the situation and white-washing Israeli crimes.

On 17 September 2023, the band announced an upcoming EP titled "Voyage of the Dead Marauder", set to be released in 2024.{{cite web|url=https://metalstorm.net/events/news_comments.php?news_id=51159|title=Alestorm - Recording New EP|work=Metal Storm|date=14 September 2023|access-date=17 September 2023}} On 14 November 2023, the band announced the release date for the EP, setting the release for 22 March 2024.{{cite magazine|url=https://bravewords.com/news/alestorm-announce-spring-24-north-american-headline-tour-voyage-of-the-dead-marauder-ep-on-the-way|title=Alestorm Announce Spring '24 North American Headline Tour; Voyage Of The Dead Marauder EP On The Way|magazine=Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles|date=14 November 2023|access-date=15 November 2023}}{{cite web|url=https://lambgoat.com/news/40801/alestorm-announce-north-american-headlining-spring-tour-new-ep-is-on-the-way/|title=Alestorm announce North American headlining Spring tour, new EP is on the way|work=Lamb Goat|date=14 November 2023|access-date=15 November 2023}} On 14 February 2024, the band released a new song, "Voyage of the Dead Marauder", the lead single from the EP.{{cite web|first=Mandy|last=Scythe|url=https://www.metalsucks.net/2024/02/14/alestorm-drop-video-for-voyage-of-the-dead-marauder/|title=Alestorm Drop Video for "Voyage of the Dead Marauder"|work=MetalSucks|date=14 February 2024|access-date=14 February 2024}} The EP featured two cover versions. On 21 March 2024, the band released a new song, "Uzbekistan", the second single from the EP.{{cite web|first=Mandy|last=Scythe|url=https://www.metalsucks.net/2024/03/23/alestorm-release-new-single-uzbekistan/|title=Alestorm Release New Single "Uzbekistan"|work=MetalSucks|date=23 March 2024|access-date=27 March 2024}}

On 4 March 2025, the band announced their eighth studio album, The Thunderfist Chronicles, set to be released on 20 June 2025.{{cite web|url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/alestorm-announces-new-album-the-thunderfist-chronicles|title=Alestorm Announces New Album 'The Thunderfist Chronicles'|work=Blabbermouth.net|date=4 March 2025|access-date=4 March 2025}}

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Alestorm is generally classified as pirate metal, folk metal, power metal and heavy metal.{{refn|group=note|Musical styles:{{columns-list|colwidth=30em|

• pirate metal{{cite web|first=Dom|last=Lawson|url=https://www.loudersound.com/reviews/alestorm-no-grave-but-the-sea-album-review|title=Alestorm - No Grave But The Sea album review|work=Metal Hammer|date=26 May 2017|access-date=16 January 2022}}{{cite web|url=https://www.cnn.com/videos/entertainment/2020/06/05/pirate-metal-band-alestorms-latest-treasure.cnn|title=Pirate Metal band Alestorm's latest treasure|work=CNN|date=5 June 2020 |access-date=14 February 2024}}{{cite web|first=Rich|last=Hobson|url=https://www.loudersound.com/features/how-alestorm-quietly-became-one-of-the-biggest-metal-bands-in-the-uk|title=How Alestorm quietly became one of the biggest metal bands in the UK|work=Metal Hammer|date=3 August 2018|access-date=1 December 2018}}{{cite web|url=https://metalinjection.net/reviews/alestorm-no-grave-but-the-sea|title=Album Review: Alestorm No Grave But The Sea|work=Metal Injection|date=31 May 2017|access-date=29 April 2019}}{{cite web|first=Manus|last=Hopkins|url=https://exclaim.ca/music/article/like_a_cask_of_rum_alestorms_merry_pirate_metal_gets_stronger_with_age_on_curse_of_the_crystal_coconut|title=Like a Cask of Rum, Alestorm's Merry Pirate Metal Gets Stronger with Age on 'Curse of the Crystal Coconut'|work=Exclaim!|date=25 May 2020|access-date=26 June 2022}}
• folk metal{{cite web|first=Josh|last=Hart|url=https://www.guitarworld.com/features/interview-dani-evans-and-christopher-bowes-alestorm|title=Interview: Dani Evans and Christopher Bowes of Alestorm|work=Guitar World|date=9 June 2011|access-date=26 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210622052526/https://www.guitarworld.com/features/interview-dani-evans-and-christopher-bowes-alestorm|archive-date=22 June 2021|url-status=live}}{{cite web|first=Carl|last=Begai|url=https://bravewords.com/features/alestorm-folk-metal-piracy-in-the-great-white-north-eh|title=Alestorm – Folk Metal Piracy In The Great White North, Eh|work=Brave Words|date=12 November 2019|access-date=26 June 2022}}{{cite web|url=https://blabbermouth.net/news/alestorm-films-shipwrecked-video|title=Alestorm Films 'Shipwrecked' Video|work=Blabbermouth.net|date=22 April 2011|access-date=26 June 2022}}{{cite web|url=https://nextmosh.com/alestorm-release-live-video-for-drink/|title=Alestorm release live video for "Drink"|work=Next Mosh|date=3 May 2021|access-date=26 June 2022}}
• power metal{{cite web|url=http://www.blabbermouth.net/news/alestorm-releases-mexico-video/|title=Alestorm Releases 'Mexico' Video|work=Blabbermouth.net|date=5 May 2017|access-date=29 April 2019}}
• heavy metal{{cite magazine|first=Douglas|last=Menagh|url=https://newnoisemagazine.com/news-alestorm-releases-new-single-official-video-for-pirate-metal-drinking-crew/|title=News: Alestorm Releases New Single & Official Video For "Pirate Metal Drinking Crew|magazine=New Noise Magazine|date=8 June 2020|access-date=26 June 2022}}

}}}} Alestorm has also included elements of pop,{{Cite web|first=Nick|last=Balazs|url=http://bravewords.com/reviews/alestorm-curse-of-the-crystal-coconut|title=Alestorm - Curse Of The Crystal Coconut|work=Brave Words|date=29 May 2020|access-date=31 May 2020|language=en-US}} rap metal, nu metal,{{cite web|first=Max|last=Morin|url=https://metalinjection.net/reviews/album-review-alestorm-curse-of-the-crystal-coconut|title=Album review: Alestorm Curse of the Crystal Coconut|work=Metal Injection|date=20 May 2020|access-date=26 September 2021}} progressive metal,{{Cite web|first=Kevin|last=Stewart-Panko|url=https://outburn.com/music-reviews/alestorm-curse-of-the-crystal-coconut/|title=Alestorm: Curse of the Crystal Coconut|work=Outburn|date=28 May 2020|access-date=29 May 2020}} thrash metal, symphonic metal, death metal, symphonic black metal, metalcore, black metal,{{cite web|first=Björn|last=Butzen|url=http://www.reflectionsofdarkness.com/artists-a-e-cdreviews-131/9684-cd-review-alestorm-back-through-time.html|title=CD Review: Alestorm – Back Through Time|work=Reflections of Darkness|date=8 June 2011|access-date=26 June 2022}} extreme metal,{{cite web|first=Chris|last=Krovatin|url=https://www.kerrang.com/10-bands-who-wouldnt-be-here-without-cradle-of-filth/|title=10 bands who wouldn't be here without Cradle Of Filth|work=Kerrang!|date=January 25, 2021|access-date=November 21, 2022}} and Finnish folk music in their music.

The band refer to themselves as "True Scottish Pirate Metal"{{cite web|first=Vince|last=Neilstein|url=https://www.metalsucks.net/2008/03/21/theres-such-a-thing-as-pirate-metal-why-of-course-there-is/|title=There's Such A Thing As Pirate Metal? Why Of Course There Is!|work=MetalSucks|date=21 March 2008|access-date=26 June 2022}} and are identifiable by the pirate-themed lyrics in their songs. Alestorm's music utilizes the upbeat epic style of Scottish folk metal and power metal. Album recordings feature heavy use of real trumpets, trombones, accordions synths, fiddle and tin whistle, violins, vibraslaps, brass, keytars, and singalong choruses to convey a pirate sea shanty feel.{{Cite web|author=Victoria Anderson|url=https://www.ghostcultmag.com/album-review-alestorm-no-grave-but-the-sea-napalm/|title=Alestorm – No Grave But The Sea|work=Ghost Cult Magazine|date=31 May 2017|access-date=21 October 2020}} Alestorm's lyrical themes focus on pirates themes including sailing, pillaging, and drinking.

The band's later albums incorporate screaming and death growls performed by keyboard player Elliot Vernon, as well from guest vocalists such as Ken Sorceron and Mathias Lillmåns.

File:Alestorm-11 (53874656868) (cropped).jpg|Christopher Bowes

File:Alestorm-37 (53874796230) (cropped).jpg|Gareth Murdock

File:Alestorm-16 (53874821335).jpg|Peter Alcorn

File:Alestorm-4 (53874663038) (cropped).jpg|Elliot Vernon

File:Alestorm-2 (53873531882).jpg|Máté Bodor

{{col-begin}}

{{col-2}}

Current members{{cite web|url=http://www.metalstorm.net/bands/band.php?band_id=2786|title=Alestorm Band Info|website=Metal Storm|access-date=21 October 2020}}

• Christopher Bowes – lead vocals, keytar (2004–present), keyboards, tin whistle (2004–2011)
• Gareth Murdock – bass, backing vocals (2008–present)
• Peter Alcorn – drums, percussion (2010–present)
• Elliot Vernon – keyboards, unclean vocals, tin whistle (2011–present)
• Máté Bodor – guitars, backing vocals (2015–present)

Former members

• Gavin Harper – guitars, drums, percussion, backing vocals (2004–2008)
• Dani Evans – bass (2006–2008), guitars (2008–2015), backing vocals (2006–2015)
• Doug Swierczek – drums (2006)
• Ian Wilson – drums, percussion, backing vocals (2007–2008, 2008–2010)
• Alex Tabisz – drums (2008)
• Tim Shaw – guitars, backing vocals (2008)

{{col-2}}

Current session musicians

• Patty Gurdy - hurdy gurdy, vocals (2020-present, studio and live)
• Tobias Hain – trumpet (2009–present, studio only)
• Ally Storch – violin, viola (2020–present, studio only)

Former session musicians

• Heri Joensen – vocals (2009)
• Jan Philipp Jacobs – trombone (2017–2020)
• Gordon Krei – programming, brass and orchestral arrangements (2009–2014)
• Brendan Casey – bass (2008), backing vocals (2008–2014)
• Migo "Oger Mampf" Wagner – drums, backing vocals (2008–2009)
• Chris Mummelthey – backing vocals (2008)
• Bee Bloodpunch – backing vocals (2009)
• Austus Twele – great highland bagpipes (2009)
• Heinrich Gimpel – bass trombone (2009)
• Carsten Petersen – trumpet, cornet (2009)
• Mirjam Beyer – violin (2009)
• Florian Frambach – trumpet (2011)
• Derek Fobaire – trombone (2011)
• Hans-Jørgen Martinus Hansen – whistles (2011)
• Maria Odvody – violin (2011)
• Chris Jones (II) – accordion (2011)
• Hildegard Niebuhr– violin (2014)

{{col-end}}

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{{Main|Alestorm discography}}

Studio albums

• Captain Morgan's Revenge (2008)
• Black Sails at Midnight (2009)
• Back Through Time (2011)
• Sunset on the Golden Age (2014)
• No Grave But the Sea (2017)
• Curse of the Crystal Coconut (2020)
• Seventh Rum of a Seventh Rum (2022)
• The Thunderfist Chronicles (2025)

• March 2008 – UK Tour supporting Turisas and Norther{{cite news|url=http://bravewords.com/news/alestorm-diary-from-turisas-support-tour-available|title=Alestorm - Diary From Turisas Support Tour Available|work=Brave Words|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• October 2008 – "Ragnarok Aaskereia" European tour with Tyr, Hollenthon, Svartsot and Gwydion
• February – March 2009 – "Pagan Knights" North American tour with Týr and Suidakra{{cite news|url=http://blabbermouth.herokuapp.com/news/archive?month=3&page=175&year=2009|title=March 2009 Blabbermouth Archive|work=Blabbermouth.net|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• April – May 2009 – "Black Sails Over Europe" European tour supported by Tyr, Heidevolk and Adorned Brood{{cite news|url=http://bravewords.com/news/black-sails-over-europe-tour-2009-featuring-alestorm-tyr-new-myspace-page-launched-tour-cd-available|title=Black Sails Over Europe Tour 2009 Featuring Alestorm, Tyr New MySpace Page Launched, Tour CD Available|work=Metal Storm|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• September 2009 – "Paganfest" European tour with Korpiklaani, Moonsorrow, Unleashed, Die Apokalyptischen Reiter, Einherjer, Ex Deo and Swashbuckle{{cite news|url=http://www.metalstorm.net/events/event.php?event_id=32539|title=AUT, Graz - Paganfest European Tour|work=Metal Storm|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• November 2009 – "Heathenfest" North American tour Eluveitie, Belphegor, Vreid, and Kivimetsan Druidi{{cite news|url=https://www.metalsucks.net/2009/10/29/heathenfest-tour-begins-next-week/|title=Heathenfest Tour Begins Next Week|work=MetalSucks|date=29 October 2009|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• December 2009 - UK tour with Eden's Curse and The Rotted.{{cite news|url=http://www.metalstorm.net/events/event.php?event_id=40580|title=GBR, Dudley - Alestorm: UK Tour|work=Metal Storm|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• February – March 2010 – "Paganfest" European tour with Finntroll, Eluveitie, Dornenreich, Varg and Arkona{{cite news|url=http://metalstorm.net/events/news_comments.php?news_id=9829|title=Finntroll - Headlining European Paganfest With Eluveitie, Arkona|work=Metal Storm|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• June 2010 – "Plunder Down Under" Australian Tour supported by Claim the Throne{{cite news|url=http://www.metalstorm.net/events/news_comments.php?news_id=10486|title=Alestorm - Australian Mini-Tour|work=Metal Storm|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• August – December 2010 – "World War Tour" European Tour supporting Sabaton{{cite news|url=http://bravewords.com/news/steelwing-confirmed-as-support-on-upcoming-world-war-tour-2010-with-alestorm-and-sabaton|title=Steelwing Confirmed As Support On Upcoming World War Tour 2010 With Alestorm and Sabaton|work=Brave Words|date=11 May 2010|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• May 2011 – "Back Through Time" Australian Tour supported by Voyager{{cite news|url=http://www.metalstorm.net/events/event.php?event_id=58230|title=AUS, Sydney - Alestorm: Back Through Time Tour|work=Metal Storm|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• August 2011 – "Pandemonium Over North America" North American tour supporting Kamelot{{cite news|url=https://www.theprp.com/2011/03/06/news/kamelot-alestorm-blackguard-and-the-agonist-set-for-augustseptember-north-american-tour/|title=Kamelot, Alestorm, Blackguard And The Agonist Set For August/September North American Tour|work=The PRP|date=6 March 2011|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• September – October 2011 – "Heidenfest" European tour with Turisas, Wintersun, Finntroll, Arkona, and Trollfest{{cite news|url=http://bravewords.com/news/finntroll-turisas-alestorm-and-more-heidenfest-2011-european-tour-video-released|title=Finntroll, Turisas, Alestorm And More - Heidenfest 2011 European tour Video Released|work=Brave Words|date=11 October 2011|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• February 2012 – "Useless Drunken Bastards" UK Tour supported by Claim the Throne and Darkest Era{{cite news|url=http://www.metalstorm.net/events/event.php?event_id=68678|title=GBR, Brighton - Alestorm: Useless Drunken Bastards UK & Ireland Tour|work=Metal Storm|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• April 2012 – "Paganfest" North American tour with Turisas and Arkona{{cite news|url=https://www.deadpress.co.uk/news-dragonforce-announce-uk-and-ireland-headline-tour-for-september/|title=News: Dragonforce announce UK and Ireland headline tour for September!|work=Deadpress|date=4 April 2012|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• September 2012 – "The Power Within" UK tour supporting DragonForce with the Defiled{{cite news|author=Zach Redrup|url=https://www.deadpress.co.uk/news-dragonforce-announce-uk-and-ireland-headline-tour-for-september/|title=News: Dragonforce announce UK and Ireland headline tour for September!|work=Deadpress|date=4 April 2012|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• October 2012 – "The North American Enigma" North American tour with Epica and Insomnium
• January 2013 – "Live at the End of the World" Australia and New Zealand tour{{cite news|url=https://fr-fr.facebook.com/alestormband/posts/live-at-the-end-of-the-world-dvd-shootaustralian-new-zealand-tour-january-2013ho/350770978339527/|title=Alestorm on Facebook|date=28 August 2012|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• November – December 2013 – North American tour supported by Trollfest and Gypsyhawk{{cite news|url=http://bravewords.com/news/alestorm-announce-north-american-tour-trollfest-gypsyhawk-to-support|title=Alestorm Announce North American Tour; Trollfest Gypsyhawk to Support|work=Brave Words|date=10 July 2013|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• September 2014 – "Storming Across Europe" European Tour supported by Brainstorm, Crimson Shadows and Troldhaugen
• October 2014 – "Piratefest" UK tour supported by Lagerstein, Red Rum, and Rainbowdragoneyes{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/alestormband/photos/alestorm-presents-piratefestpirates-of-scotland-wales-ireland-northern-ireland-a/10152692895723054/|title=Alestorm on Facebook|website=Facebook |date=7 July 2014|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• January 2015 – "Piratefest" North American tour supported by Swashbuckle and the Dread Crew of Oddwood{{cite news|url=http://www.metalstorm.net/events/news_comments.php?news_id=25161|title=Alestorm - To Tour North America In 2015|work=Metal Storm|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• November 2015 – "Piratefest" Australia and New Zealand tour supported by Lagerstein and Troldhaugen{{cite news|url=https://wallofsoundau.com/2015/11/22/gareth-murdock-alestorm-audio-interview/|title=Gareth Murdock – Alestorm (audio interview)|work=Wall of Sound|date=22 November 2017|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• February – March 2016 – "Heroes on Tour" Europe and UK co-headlining tour with Sabaton{{cite news|first=Bruce|last=Henne|url=https://www.loudersound.com/news/sabaton-issue-swedish-pagans-live-clip|title=Sabaton issue Swedish Pagans live clip|work=Metal Hammer|date=28 February 2022|access-date=16 January 2022}}
• October 2016 – "Super Smashed Turbo Tour" North American tour supported by Nekrogoblikon and Æther Realm{{cite news|url=https://www.facebook.com/alestormband/photos/super-smashed-turbo-tour-2016alestorm-nekrogoblikon-aether-realm100216-greensbor/10154408978878054/|title=Alestorm on Facebook|date=28 June 2017|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• June – August 2017 – Vans Warped Tour North American tour{{cite news|url=https://www.kerrang.com/the-news/vans-warped-tour-2017-line-up-announced/|title=Vans Warped Tour 2017 Line-Up Announced|work=Kerrang!|date=23 March 2017|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• September – October 2017 – "No Grave But the Sea" headline European tour supported by Æther Realm and Troldhaugen{{cite news|url=https://www.therockpit.net/2019/argentina-metal-act-rumahoy-to-join-alestorm-on-australia-new-zealand-tour/|title=Argentina metal act Rumahoy to join Alestorm on Australia & New Zealand tour|work=The Rock Pit|date=8 January 2019|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• February 2018 – "Piratefest 2018" UK and Ireland tour supported by Rumahoy and the Dread Crew of Oddwood{{cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/napalmrecords/photos/alestorms-piratefest-2018-uk-irelandahoy-pirates-of-the-united-kingdom-and-irela/10155918773076052/|title=Napalm Records on Facebook|website=Facebook |date=11 October 2017|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• August 2018 - Bloodstock Open Air Festival Saturday main stage{{cite news|url=https://www.loudersound.com/features/bloodstock-festival-2018-the-big-review|title=Bloodstock festival 2018: The big review|work=Metal Hammer|date=13 August 2018|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• September 2018 - North American Tour supported by Gloryhammer{{cite news|url=http://www.metalstorm.net/events/event.php?event_id=146519|title=USA, Mesa, AZ - Alestorm & Gloryhammer: North America 2018|work=Metal Storm|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• November - December 2018 - "Skälstorm European Tour" supported by Skálmöld{{cite news|url=http://bravewords.com/news/alestorm-skalmold-announce-european-tour-part-two|title=Alestorm, Skälstorm Announce European Tour Part Two|work=Brave Words|date=12 December 2018|access-date=22 October 2020}}
• February 2019 - Australian Tour supported by Rumahoy
• November 2021 - UK and Ireland Tour supported by Gloryhammer and Bootyard Bandits{{cite news|url=https://alestorm.net/tourdates/|title=Alestorm Official Website Tour Dates|work=Alestorm|access-date=4 December 2021}}
• June 2022 - Download Festival Sunday Main Stage
• November - December 2023 - Europe tour {{cite news|url=https://tour.alestorm.net/|title=Alestorm Website TOURDATES & TICKETS|work=Alestorm|access-date=15 November 2023}}
• February - March 2024 - Sausage, Bean and Cheesin’ around the UK Tour. Supported by Korpiklaani and Heidevolk
• March - April 2024 - Tour of the Dead Marauder USA and Canada with Elvenking and Glyph

{{reflist|group=note}}

{{notelist}}

{{Reflist}}

{{Commons category|Alestorm}}

• {{Official website|http://www.alestorm.net/}}
• {{allMusic}}
• [https://shop.napalmrecords.com/alestorm/ Alestorm] at Napalm Records
• [http://www.metalgodstv.com/alestorm_%20podcast_page.html Video Interview with Alestorm from Metal Gods TV]
• [http://teethofthedivine.com/site/featured/interview-with-alestorm/ Interview with Alestorm from Teeth of the Divine]
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20120321015804/http://www.xplosivemetal.com/interviews/799-alestorm-interview-with-dani-evans "ALESTORM Interview with Dani Evans"], Xplosive Metal, June 2011, Caroline Restiaux

{{Alestorm}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Alestorm}}

Category:Scottish folk metal musical groups

Category:Scottish power metal musical groups

Category:Musical groups established in 2004

Category:Napalm Records artists

Category:Articles which contain graphical timelines

Category:Scottish musical quintets

Category:Pirates in popular culture

Category:Musicians from Perth, Scotland