Seahorses (The)
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Hello you. Make a cup of tea, put a record on. Welcome to The A to Z of Britpop, your introduction to the bands, music, and characters that defined the most exciting genre of the 1990s. In this article, we introduce The Seahorses, the short-lived but unforgettable band that showcased John Squire’s artistry post-Stone Roses.
Britpop was built on personalities, fierce rivalries, soundbites, and, of course, the music that defined a decade. It captured the restless energy of the country and signalled a wave of optimism across the UK that had been missing for years.
Each entry in this series is a fact file, giving you the key details: who they were, where they came from, and what they made. It’s the perfect starting point for revisiting the era if you were there, or figuring out why your mum or dad keeps going on about it.
Overview
Originated in: York, England
Active years: 1996–1999
Associated genres: Alternative rock, indie rock, Britpop
Record labels: Geffen
Members: John Squire – guitar, backing vocals / Chris Helme – lead vocals, rhythm guitar / Stuart Fletcher – bass / Andy Watts – drums
Former members: Mal Scott – drums / Toby Drummond – drums / Mark Heaney – drums
Formation and Early Years
Formed in 1996 by John Squire following his departure from The Stone Roses.
Bassist Stuart Fletcher was discovered by Squire while performing in a local covers band.
Chris Helme, the band’s lead singer, was discovered busking outside a Woolworths store in York.
Andy Watts completed the lineup as drummer after several auditions.
Rise to Prominence
Their debut single, "Love Is the Law", was released in April 1997 and soared to No. 3 on the UK Singles Chart.
Do It Yourself (1997) debuted at No. 2 on the UK Albums Chart, cementing their place in Britpop.
Opened for major acts such as Oasis, U2, and The Rolling Stones during their peak.
Commercial Success and Albums
The debut album, Do It Yourself (1997), featured standout tracks such as "Blinded by the Sun", "Love Me and Leave Me", and "Love Is the Law".
The album received significant praise for Squire’s guitar work and the band’s melodic sensibilities.
Despite success, tensions within the band began to surface during their follow-up album sessions.
Later Activities and Legacy
Work on a second album was abandoned due to creative differences, leading to the band’s split in 1999.
John Squire pursued solo projects and later rejoined The Stone Roses for their reunion.
Chris Helme launched a solo career and formed The Yards, continuing his music journey.
Stuart Fletcher remained active in music, joining bands like The Yards and Hurricane #1.
Notable Facts
Chart-Topping Debut: The Seahorses’ debut single, "Love Is the Law", reached No. 3 in the UK Singles Chart, a rare achievement for a new band.
Star Collaborations: "Love Me and Leave Me" from Do It Yourself was co-written with Liam Gallagher of Oasis, uniting two Britpop icons.
Dramatic End: The band’s second album was abandoned mid-recording due to tensions, leaving fans to speculate about what could have been.
Defining Lyric
"Take in the sights and drown in our senses" - Love Is the Law (1997)
Discography
Do It Yourself (1997)
Essential Listening
"Love Is the Law" (1997): A soaring anthem showcasing Squire’s signature guitar work and Helme’s powerful vocals.
"Blinded by the Sun" (1997): A reflective and melodic track highlighting the band’s lyrical depth.
"Love Me and Leave Me" (1997): Co-written with Liam Gallagher, this track combines Britpop swagger with heartfelt emotion.
Why You Should Be Listening to The Seahorses Now
The Seahorses captured the spirit of Britpop with their anthemic melodies and John Squire’s masterful guitar work. Though short-lived, their music remains a testament to the era’s creativity and energy. Rediscover Do It Yourself and hear the echoes of a band that burned bright, if only for a moment.
See you on down the road.
