Grunge Revival: Villanelle Drops Blistering Debut Single 'Hinge'
Gene Gallagher's rock band Villanelle has finally unleashed their debut single, "Hinge," a blistering Nineties throwback that's been generating buzz across Europe since its early 2024 live performances. The trio's fusion of Nirvana-esque angst, Smashing Pumpkins-inspired grandeur, My Bloody Valentine's swirling soundscapes, and Dinosaur Jr.'s raw energy has earned them a devoted following.
"Hinge" is a frenetic, guitar-driven anthem about paranoia stemming from sleepless nights, according to Gallagher. "I was probably hungover when I wrote it," he quipped in a statement. The song's release marks the band's first official recording, previously only accessible through live performances or fan-shot YouTube videos.
Ben Taylor, Villanelle's guitarist, praised his bandmate's unique perspective: "Gene brings the most unique perspective on both life and music of anyone I've ever met. I'm very organized with the way I play music, and Gene is the complete opposite." The trio's contrasting approaches have contributed to their distinctive sound.
Villanelle's rise to prominence began in 2024, when they started playing gigs across Europe. Their live shows drew large crowds, generating a sense of anticipation for their recorded output. With "Hinge" now available, fans can finally experience the band's music beyond the concert setting.
The single's release coincides with Villanelle's announcement of an underplay headline tour in the U.K., set to begin in December. Tickets will go on sale on September 17. Industry insiders predict that this grunge revival will resonate with audiences craving a return to the raw, unbridled energy of the Nineties.
As the music landscape continues to evolve, Villanelle's blend of nostalgia and innovation is poised to captivate fans of alternative rock. With "Hinge" as their debut statement, the band is ready to take center stage in the grunge revival movement.
Background: Gene Gallagher's background in music is rooted in his early days playing in various bands. After a stint in Los Angeles, he relocated to Europe, where Villanelle was formed with guitarist Ben Taylor and bassist Jack Schiavo.
Next Developments: Fans can catch Villanelle live on their U.K. tour, which kicks off in December. In the meantime, "Hinge" is available for streaming and download.
*Reporting by Rollingstone.*