Villanelle are currently introducing themselves in the biggest way imaginable, receiving big receptions every night as the opening band on Liam Gallagher’s huge ‘Definitely Maybe: 30 Years’ tour. As that run of shows nears its end, Villanelle - fronted by Liam’s son Gene on vocals and guitar - now prepare to step out on their own for the first time with the confirmation of their debut UK headline tour.
Gene has been writing songs for as long as he can remember, but only formed Villanelle earlier this year with Ben Taylor (guitar), Jack Schiavo (bass) and Andrew Richmond (drums). They made such an instant impact following early gigs such as at London rock ‘n’ roll pub The Marquis that Liam offered them the opening slot on his current tour.
Opening for one of music’s most iconic frontman playing one of the all-time most influential albums, in front of huge crowds on a bill completed by another indie great in the shape of Cast or The View was a sink-or-swim moment, but Villanelle naturally made the most of the opportunity. As Maximum Volume’s review of the Sheffield show enthused, “Gene has a neat line in cool insouciance, an even better line in lead guitar and some very decent songs. The surname might have got Villanelle on this bill, but it’s their talent that will keep them appearing on others."
Villanelle have also already caused a wave of excitement following shows as guests to the likes of Seb Lowe, Overpass and Pastel.
While Villanelle are yet to release any music, expect more news to follow on that front soon…
