Review

By Emily Strout | 16/05/2026

Measly Means is the debut effort from Villanelle, the band made up of frontman Gene Gallagher, guitarist Ben Taylor, and bassist Jack Schiavo. Prior to releasing any recorded music, Villanelle had spent time gigging live and building up a modest fanbase, even opening for Liam Gallagher’s 30-year Definitely Maybe tour. Yes, Gene Gallagher as in that Gallagher—Villanelle is fronted by the Oasis singer's youngest son. While it may be that the band’s "means" aren’t measly at all, I still find myself quite enjoying what Villanelle is doing. Measly Means shows a lot of promise, even if it can be a bit rough around the edges. The entire EP—which spans a little under twenty minutes—rings with nostalgia from 90s and 2000s grunge, as the boys cite Nirvana as heavy inspiration. Other comparisons include Alice In Chains and The Smashing Pumpkins, although both sonically and lyrically, these five tracks lack some of the complexity I’d hope for. Which, I take care to say, is not necessarily a bad thing. Listening to the EP feels like recovering from a messy night out, to which its simple yet fuzzy sound lends itself to. Energetic title track “Measly Means” sets the stage as Gene sings colourlessly about lying in bed, battling a hangover. It’s followed by “Opportunity Arising,” tempering that energy with a more melancholic ambience. Here is the contemplative part of the night, with lyrics of reflection (“starting to feel like I’m drowning and I’m all over the place,” sings Gene). The soundscape is genuinely lovely; a somewhat shoegaze-y atmosphere which provides a nice contrast. “Hinge” is up next, the band’s first released single which is placed neatly in the middle of the EP. It’s loud and punchy, an energetic follow-up to “Opportunity” even as Gene’s voice comes across a bit flat. Narratively, “Hinge” brings more of that midnight delirium that the first two songs established, with confused lyrics accompanying frenetic guitar. “Squeeze” is another in the vein of “Opportunity,” sustaining the nighttime ambiance while being slightly unmemorable compared to its siblings. Thankfully, it’s quickly followed up by the final song “Placebo,” a strong way to end and my favourite of the five. The lyrics are compelling and Gene’s finally found his stride with his vocals, singing with a slight rasp that feels at home with the instrumental. The only shame is that it took this long to hear. I leave Measly Means optimistic for Villanelle’s future. The wheel hasn’t been reinvented here, but it’s certainly spinning fast and loud, with the bones of good, solid rock powering it.