Running Wild - Black Hand Inn

"Black Hand Inn" is a concept album heavily focused on pirate lore, occultism, and anti-religious themes. The record tells the dark story of a young boy who is unjustly burned at the stake by the Inquisition and returns as an undead pirate captain. This pirate imagery became the defining characteristic of the German band's career.

Rock 'n' Rolf Kasparek, the founding member of the band, handled both lead vocals and rhythm guitar duties on "Black Hand Inn." His gritty voice and classic heavy metal riffs are the driving force behind the album. He has remained the only constant member in the band's long history.

The album was released in 1994 during a highly productive era for the German heavy metal scene. It followed their previous successful pirate-themed album, "Pile of Skulls." The record helped cement their transition from speed metal to a unique pirate metal sound.

"Black Hand Inn" is a heavy/power metal album that helped pioneer the pirate metal subgenre. The music features fast-paced, galloping guitar riffs, classic heavy metal drum beats, and anthemic, sing-along choruses. This blend of styles heavily influenced later European metal bands.