Storm Seeker

Storm Seeker

Storm Seeker is a German folk metal band from Neuss, active since 2013. The group is associated with pirate folk metal and plays with a line-up that includes vocals, guitars, keyboards, hurdy-gurdy, accordion, recorders, cello, bass, drums and percussion. Its members include Patty Gurdy, Tim Braatz, Fabienne Kirschke, Paul L. Martens, Manuel Depryck, Timo Bornfleth and Olaf Abor.

Style and formation

Formed in 2013, Storm Seeker builds its sound around folk metal with pirate-themed elements and uses unusual instruments such as hurdy-gurdy and cello alongside conventional rock instrumentation. The band is based in Neuss, Germany.

Early release and performance history

After more than 30 concerts in different German cities, the band releases its first EP, Pirate Scum, on Aeterna Records. The group develops a reputation for detailed arrangements and multi-part vocals, with songs that often feature both Timo and Patricia singing together. Its material also moves between upbeat, singalong passages and more melancholy sections.

Line-up and roles

The band’s line-up changes over time, but its detailed credits include Marius “Olaf Abor” Bornfleth on drums and percussion, with backing vocals and guitars across different periods; Tim “Ughar der Schrecklich Durstige” Braatz on keyboards and accordion; Fabienne “Fabi” Kirschke on hurdy-gurdy, recorders, backing and lead vocals; Paul Martens on guitars; and Sean Graham on vocals. Earlier credits also include Timo Bornfleth on vocals and bass, Sandra Schmitt on cello and backing vocals, Patricia Büchler on hurdy-gurdy, vocals and flutes, and Patrick Stäudle on guitars and backing vocals.