"Port Royal" by Running Wild, a landmark in heavy metal, emerged as the epitome of Pirate Metal. Released in 1988, on a 12" vinyl LP, the album marked a deliberate shift for the German band. Meticulously crafted in collaboration with Noise International, it blended ferocious riffs and anthemic tracks to narrate pirate tales. "Port Royal" remains a timeless masterpiece, influencing a subgenre and securing its place in heavy metal history.
In the world of heavy metal history, few bands have ventured into the thematic waters of pirate lore with the same audacity and flair as Germany's own Running Wild. With their fourth studio album, "Port Royal," the band not only solidified their status as a force to be reckoned with in the metal realm but also pioneered the subgenre now affectionately known as Pirate Metal.
Released in1988, "Port Royal" marked a significant turning point in Running Wild's discography. The album, presented on a 12" vinyl LP, stands as a testament to the band's creativity and ability to weave captivating tales through their music.
A Historical Journey: The Creation of "Port Royal"
The creation of "Port Royal" was not merely the result of a band looking for a new concept to explore. Instead, it was a deliberate and inspired decision by Running Wild to carve a niche for themselves in the crowded landscape of heavy metal. Drawing inspiration from historical pirate stories, the band embarked on a musical voyage that would resonate with fans and critics alike.
The album's production process was meticulous, with Running Wild collaborating closely with Noise International, the record label that would release this masterpiece. The synergy between the band and the label played a crucial role in shaping the final product, ensuring that every note, riff, and lyric adhered to the thematic essence of the pirate motif.
Musical Alchemy: The Sound of "Port Royal"
"Port Royal" delivered a sonic experience that blended the ferocity of heavy metal with the swashbuckling spirit of pirate tales. The album's opening track, "Intro," sets the stage with the sound of waves crashing against the shore, immediately transporting listeners to the high seas. From there, the album unfolds with a series of powerful and anthemic tracks, including the eponymous "Port Royal" and classics like "Conquistadores."
The fusion of galloping riffs, thunderous drums, and the distinctive vocals of Rolf Kasparek created a musical tapestry that vividly depicted the adventurous and rebellious world of pirates. Running Wild's ability to seamlessly integrate historical narratives into their music set "Port Royal" apart from its contemporaries.
Speed Metal / Heavy Metal / Pirate Metal
Noise International – N 0122-1
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
1988 Germany
This album includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs by and artwork/photos.
Running Wild - Producers
Karl-Ulrich Walterbach - Executive Producer
Karl-Ulrich Walterbach: German music producer who transformed the heavy metal scene. Founder of the iconic Noise Records, he launched the careers of Helloween, Celtic Frost, and countless others. Learn more
Tom Steeler - Sound and Sound Mix Engineer
This album was recorded Sky Trak, Berlin, Germany during June 1988.
Stefan Kruger - Cover Paintings
Sebastian ( or Stefan ) Krüger a German Illustrator who has (during the 1980s) drawn around two dozen of album covers for bands like: Destruction, Risk, Sodom, Tankard, Runing Wild.
Rock and Rolf Kasparek - Guitar, formed the band "Granite Heart" around 1979 this band was renamed into "Running Wild".
Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone )
"Branded and Exiled" (1985), Running Wild's pivotal album, marked the debut of guitarist Majk Moti and defined the Pirate Metal genre. With Rolf Kasparek's visionary songwriting, the album blended traditional heavy metal with maritime themes, unleashing tales of rebellion and adventure.
Branded and Exiled 12" Vinyl LP"Death or Glory" is a Pirate Power metal album by German band RUNNING WILD. One of their most successful releases, it contains the concert favourites "Riding the Storm" and "Bad to the Bone"
Death or Glory 12" Vinyl LPRunning Wild's debut album,"Gates to Purgatory," released in 1984, marked a pivotal moment in heavy metal history. Predating their famed pirate themes, the album delved into satanic influences, creating a raw and rebellious sound. With haunting lyrics and iconic cover art, the album set the stage for Running Wild
Gates To Purgatory 12" Vinyl LP"Port Royal" by Running Wild, a landmark in heavy metal, emerged as the epitome of Pirate Metal. Released in 1988, on a 12" vinyl LP, the album marked a deliberate shift for the German band. Meticulously crafted in collaboration with Noise International, it blended ferocious riffs and anthemic tracks
Port Royal 12" Vinyl LP"Ready For Boarding" by Running Wild, a live album recorded in Munich, Germany, captures the band's electrifying stage presence. Released on a 12" vinyl LP by Noise Records, it features a rare track, "Purgatory," dedicated to the PMRC. The album, with its powerful live performance and bold musical statements
Ready For Boarding 12" Vinyl LPLabel , Year , Country
"Running Wild" is one of the German power metal bands to emerge in the early/mid 1980s (along with Helloween, Gamma Ray, Rage, Blind Guardian, Grave Digger, EdGuy, etc). The band has carved its niche in the metal world as the first "pirate metal" band, a theme which took off with the release of this album
- Under Jolly Roger (1987, Canada) - Under Jolly Roger (1987, Germany)