Lyrics
Verse 1
Hoist the black cloth highWe’re bound for SapporoKnife wind off the waterAnd the deck stays lowThe kettle’s black as tarThe mast groans like a manWe left the green shore behindFor that far northern span
Pre‑Chorus
Pull, boys, pullFeel the timbers strainOne more heaveThrough the sleet and spray
Chorus
Heave away, my ladsHeave awayTo SapporoWe’re on our wayHeave away, my ladsHeave awayTo the Tanuki ThunderWhere the rum won’t stay
Verse 2
The captain lost his eyeTo a cannon’s biteStill he laughs at thunderAnd he drinks by nightRations down to crumbsRum’s down to the dregsBut no man quits this vesselWith salt in his bread and lead in his legs
Pre‑Chorus
Pull, boys, pullHear the hull replyOne more heaveToward the frozen sky
Chorus
Heave away, my ladsHeave awayTo SapporoWe’re on our wayHeave away, my ladsHeave awayTo the Tanuki ThunderWhere the rum won’t stay
Bridge
A lantern swings in the fogA dock light off the bowCould be the harbor callingCould be we’re there nowSo lock your teeth and grinAnd brace your bones for fameWhen the Tanuki Thunder’s pouringNobody asks your name
Final Chorus
Heave away, my ladsHeave awayTo SapporoWe’re on our wayHeave away, my ladsHeave awayTo the Tanuki ThunderWhere the rum won’t stayHeave away, my ladsHeave awayTo SapporoWe’re on our way