What makes Curse of the Crystal Coconut by Alestorm notable?

This album debuted at number 1 on the UK Rock & Metal Albums Chart, showcasing Alestorm's continued commercial success and influence in the heavy metal scene. Its whimsical approach to storytelling has been noted for both entertaining listeners and contributing to the growing popularity of folk metal. Curse of the Crystal Coconut is Alestorm's fifth studio album, following their 2017 release, No Grave But the Sea. By this point in their career, Alestorm had solidified their identity within the pirate metal genre, gaining a dedicated fanbase and touring extensively. The album reflects their growth as musicians while maintaining their signature playful themes.

Who is Curse of the Crystal Coconut for?

Curse of the Crystal Coconut works well if you're into dynamic emotional journeys, energetic party atmosphere and humorous and lighthearted vibes.

How many songs are on Curse of the Crystal Coconut?

Curse of the Crystal Coconut has 11 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

Curse of the Crystal Coconut

Alestorm · 2020

44 min · 11 tracks · power metal

A raucous blend of sea shanties and heavy metal riffs, fueled by a relentless spirit of adventure and humor.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Treasure Chest Party Quest — The opening track sets the tone with energetic melodies and humorous lyrics about a treasure hunt, showcasing Alestorm's unique blend of fun and metal.
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Fannybaws — This track features catchy choruses and playful wordplay that exemplify the band's irreverent style, making it a fan favorite during live shows.
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Zombies Ate My Pirate Ship — Combining horror elements with traditional pirate themes, this song creatively reflects the band's ability to mix genres while keeping the audience engaged.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

51 /100

Foothills

Higher than 34% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong thematic elements and energetic compositions but lacks depth for long-term engagement.

What we noticed

The album opens with a high-energy track that sets a fast tempo, and the following songs maintain this pace with few slow moments.
Several tracks incorporate call-and-response vocals, enhancing the communal feel typical of sea shanties.
The final track slows down the tempo significantly, providing a contrast to the preceding energetic songs.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

dynamic emotional journeys
energetic party atmosphere
humorous and lighthearted vibes
gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

Career context: Curse of the Crystal Coconut is Alestorm's fifth studio album, following their 2017 release, No Grave But the Sea. By this point in their career, Alestorm had solidified their identity within the pirate metal genre, gaining a dedicated fanbase and touring extensively. The album reflects their growth as musicians while maintaining their signature playful themes.
Stylistic neighbors: Finntroll· Korpiklaani· Ensiferum