A legacy, heavy with expectation and scrutiny, follows Gene Gallagher as he steps into the British music scene with his new band Villanelle. Formed in early 2024, this fresh project represents more than just another musical venture; it stands as a deliberate challenge to contemporary pop norms. The son of Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher and All Saints’ Nicole Appleton, Gene has assembled a formidable lineup featuring Ben Taylor on guitar, Jack Schiavo handling bass duties, and Andrew behind the drums.
The band’s genesis traces back to Gene’s long-standing songwriting efforts, which predated Villanelle’s official launch by several years. Their swift progression to live performances began with intimate warm-up shows at venues like The Bodega in Nottingham, where audiences responded with a mix of enthusiasm and the inevitable skepticism that accompanies a famous surname.
Despite occasional heckling, Gene approaches these reactions with remarkable resilience, viewing such challenges as an expected part of his musical journey. Gene draws on his previous experience playing drums with his father, giving him valuable perspective as he transitions to his role as frontman.
Hecklers are just part of the landscape when your surname weighs heavier than your first album.
Villanelle’s sound deliberately echoes the cultural zenith of Britpop while incorporating contemporary elements. Gene’s exposure to defining musical moments—Oasis at Knebworth, Suede at Royal Albert Hall—has profoundly shaped his artistic vision. The band now prepares to support Liam Gallagher’s 14-date arena tour celebrating the 30th anniversary of Oasis’s debut album.
At the core of Villanelle’s mission lies Gene’s conviction that guitar music, though underrepresented in recent years, is experiencing a significant resurgence. This revival coincides with contributions from acts like Wet Leg, Wolf Alice, and even Olivia Rodrigo, validating Villanelle’s timing and approach. Gene’s musical preferences lean toward heavy guitar music, which has influenced both his father’s tastes and Villanelle’s distinctive sound.
The band positions itself at the forefront of this movement, championing a return to energetic, guitar-driven performances. Beyond live shows, Villanelle is exploring sync deals to place their music in films and commercials, expanding their reach while maintaining artistic integrity. The group plans to leverage streaming platforms to connect with fans and build momentum before releasing their debut EP.
While acknowledging his weighty musical inheritance, Gene remains focused on establishing Villanelle’s distinct identity within the British music landscape. Through fiery performances and an unwavering commitment to authentic sound, Villanelle seeks to bridge generations of Britpop enthusiasts while carving out their own place in the continuing evolution of British rock.
