by Antti J. Ravelin

1988's Port Royal is somehow surprising, as Running Wild's large back catalog isn't of the highest quality. Port Royal is very fine overall, with excellent songs and fantastic arrangements. Even though the second half of the album fails in comparison with the first, Port Royal is absolutely the most steady of Running Wild's albums. The only thing that might bother listeners is the rather poor mixing, which leaves some pretty vital instruments behind drums and vocals. However, highlights such as the title track, "Blown to Kingdom Come," and "Mutiny" help ensure that Port Royal is a great choice for anyone into speed metal and its spin-offs.