The Newfoundland and Labrador musical trio known as the Salt Beef Junkies is experiencing a significant rise in popularity following their appearance in the Netflix series Below. The group, consisting of Luke Mercer, Alex Mercer, and Ty Simms, contributed to the show's soundtrack and appeared as performers in the production.

How did the musicians participate in the series?

The trio was selected last summer to provide music for the series and to appear on screen. Their involvement includes:

  • A song contribution to the official soundtrack
  • An appearance in two separate episodes
  • A performance as the house band for a kitchen party scene

Musician Alex Mercer noted the surprise of the invitation, telling CBC Radio's Weekend AM, "Mudder first told me and I was like, geez, us?" The group's appearance in the kitchen party scene was a demanding task, with Simms noting that the filming took place overnight from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.

What is the impact of the N.L. musicians' appearance?

The global success of Below has amplified the group's reach. The series has achieved 17 million views globally and reached the number one spot in 53 countries. This massive audience has translated to digital engagement for the band, with one social media post receiving over 200,000 views in a single day.

While the members are used to smaller television appearances, such as on Rock Solid Builds, Ty Simms described Below as their "first big TV appearance."

The massive scale of the production

Below is a major production that has heavily utilized the landscape of Newfoundland and Labrador. Filmed over 75 days, the series features locations such as St. John’s, Brigus South, and Pouch Cove. The show follows a fisherman protecting his community from a mysterious marine creature known as "Mudder."

The production has had a significant economic impact, injecting more than 90 million Canadian dollars into the country. It involved over 700 cast and crew members, as well as hundreds of extras and local service providers. This scale has helped bring international eyes to the province's culture, including its traditional fishing techniques and local craftsmanship.

FAQ

Which musicians are in the Salt Beef Junkies?

The group is a Newfoundland traditional trio made up of Luke Mercer, Alex Mercer, and Ty Simms.

Where can the band's music be heard?

Tracks from the group are featured on the official Spotify playlist for the series Below.