Running Wild
Death Or Glory

THE REVIEW

Today I take on the challenge of reviewing this wonderful album by Running Wild.

First of all, I have to say that the fame of this German band has unfortunately been eclipsed by the more famous bands in the German power scene; but rest assured that the "Wild Runners" have nothing to envy from them. I understand that there are Blind Guardian, Gamma Ray, and Edguy, who I also like very much; however…

Anyway, Running Wild is the Power/Heavy metal band formed by uncle Rolf Kasparek (known as Rock n'Rolf), which stands out from all the others for their beautiful and fitting image: they are the "Metal Pirates", and in fact, we see them in live shows and videos dressed as true corsairs with fires blazing on stage. This band has undergone numerous lineup changes but only stabilized in the mid-nineties. The lineup for "Death or Glory" (the most qualitative) features Rock n' Rolf on vocals and guitar, Majk Moti on guitar and backing vocals, Jens Becker on bass and backing vocals, and Iain Finlay on drums.

Let’s get to the album:

it starts with the stormy "Riding The Storm" which after a long intro of 6 repeating notes, gives us a true adrenaline rush thanks to the rhythms and Rolf's sharp voice. The powerful "Renegade" with its sound makes you imagine the 4 pirates roaming the seas in their ship plundering other vessels. "Evolution" is really haunting, with duels between the two mighty guitars reigning supreme. "Running Blood" is a fast, melodic, epic ride against time. "Highland Glory" is an excellent instrumental piece beautifully driven by bass and drums, where the leading role is the guitar. Listening to this piece, I imagine myself with that guitar on top of a mountain near a coast, playing like a madman.

"Marroned" is a splendid song with fast and magical solos. "Bad To The Bone" is a great guitar spectacular (check out the video). "Tortuga Bay" is another fast-paced track that almost recalls the sounds of "Marroned". The ninth track is the title track, which is a bit darker than the others but still acceptable. "The battle of Waterloo" recreates the atmosphere of that battle with an appropriate bagpipe and everything else. The last one is "March On"; a simple but impactful march.

Without beating around the bush: this is the best Running Wild album!