Steve ‘n’ Seagulls started their journey in 2011 when a group of musicians came together, though the lineup has changed over time. According to Remmel, the band’s lead vocalist, everything fell into place as the members met and started jamming. Their big break, however, didn’t come until they decided to upload their unique covers to YouTube. “We wanted some agency to discover us,” Remmel explained when asked why they waited six years before sharing their first video.
Finnish Roots, Southern Sound
At first listen, many assume Steve ‘n’ Seagulls hail from the southern U.S., thanks to their bluegrass-infused rock covers. But when people realize they’re actually from Finland, the surprise only grows. While their sound is heavily influenced by American bluegrass instruments like the banjo, mandolin, and double bass, Remmel insists their music is still deeply rooted in Finnish tradition. “I don’t feel that we are influenced by the culture of North America,” he said. “Some of the instruments we play do have their origins in places like Kentucky, but others, like the accordion, are common in Finnish traditional music.”
Despite their European origins, the band’s 2016 album Brothers In Farms shot to No. 1 on the Billboard Bluegrass chart, proving that their fresh take on rock classics had a universal appeal.
Rock Classics with a Bluegrass Twist
Steve ‘n’ Seagulls’ unorthodox renditions of iconic rock bands like AC/DC, Pantera, Iron Maiden, Metallica, KISS, and Guns N’ Roses have brought them international acclaim. Their renditions, meanwhile, don’t sound anything like the originals. To produce their distinctive sound, they substitute acoustic instruments like the banjo, mandolin, spoons, and even a sink for powerful guitars and pounding drums.
Bluegrass-style covers of “Nothing Else Matters,” “November Rain,” “You Shook Me All Night Long,” and “Thunderstruck” are among their most popular YouTube videos. Steve ‘n’ Seagulls never cease to astound and delight rock and bluegrass fans with their eccentric vigor and surprising musical blend.
Listen to Steve ‘n’ Seagulls’ rock twist of “November Rain” in the video below: