Dharma Guns Reimagine David Bowie Classic ‘I’m Afraid of Americans’ Featuring Rami Helin

Dharma Guns are set to revisit one of David Bowie’s most provocative songs with their upcoming single, ‘I’m Afraid of Americans’, featuring Rami Helin, out October 30, 2026, via Golden Robot Records.

Covering a David Bowie classic is a bold undertaking, but the Finnish rockers have never been a band to shy away from a challenge. Bringing the track into their own distinctive sound, Dharma Guns deliver a fresh interpretation that retains the original’s unsettling edge and enduring impact.

Originally released in 1997, Bowie’s ‘I’m Afraid of Americans’ explored anxieties surrounding American cultural influence and its place in an increasingly interconnected world. Nearly three decades later, the song’s themes continue to resonate amid ongoing debates about America’s cultural and political influence. Dharma Guns’ interpretation offers a new perspective on a track whose central questions remain relevant.

The release follows a busy period for the Helsinki-based band, who released their debut album, Ex-Generation Superstars, in November 2024 before returning in April 2026 with their second album, Nightmares and Broken Dreams. The latter was preceded by four singles accompanied by music videos, with the subsequent album tour taking the band from their hometown of Helsinki to venues across the British Isles, including Scotland and London.

Dharma Guns began taking shape in November 2023, when guitarist Pete, known for his work with Huuto! and former involvement with Dead Fun and Turun Romantiikka, decided to take on vocal duties after writing a collection of songs without finding the right singer. He assembled a lineup featuring Edu, formerly of Bad Valentines and Plastic Tears; Jussi, formerly of Vanity Ink; and Olli, whose credits include Jo Below and Mönni.

Drawing on influences ranging from Hanoi Rocks and Guns N’ Roses to MC5 and The Hellacopters, the band describes their sound as rock ’n’ roll infused with protopunk and Scandinavian influences. They have also adopted the label ‘dandy punks’ to describe their musical identity, combining gritty guitar work, energetic performances and choruses built for audiences to sing along to.

In August 2026, Dharma Guns signed a recording deal with Australian label Golden Robot Records, marking another step forward for the band as they continue to expand their reach beyond Finland.

With ‘I’m Afraid of Americans’, Dharma Guns bring their own rock ’n’ roll sensibilities to a song that has remained culturally provocative long after its original release. Featuring Rami Helin, the single arrives October 30 via Golden Robot Records.

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Will Dharma Guns’ interpretation introduce a new generation of listeners to Bowie’s pointed commentary, and how much has the song’s message changed since 1997?

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