Gene
Pressing Play
Hello you. Make a cup of tea, put a record on. Welcome to The A to Z of Britpop, your introduction to the bands, music, and characters that defined the most exciting genre of the 1990s. In this article, we introduce Gene, the band whose heartfelt, Smiths-inspired melodies and reflective lyrics made them one of Britpop's most compelling acts.
Britpop was built on personalities, fierce rivalries, soundbites, and, of course, the music that defined a decade. It captured the restless energy of the country and signaled a wave of optimism across the UK that had been missing for years.
Each entry in this series is a fact file, giving you the key details: who they were, where they came from, and what they made. It’s the perfect starting point for revisiting the era if you were there or figuring out why your mum or dad keeps going on about it.
Overview
Originated in: London, England
Active years: 1993–2004 (One-off reunion in 2008)
Associated genres: Alternative rock, Britpop
Record labels: Costermonger, Polydor, Contra
Members: Martin Rossiter – vocals, keyboards / Steve Mason – guitar / Kevin Miles – bass / Matt James – drums
Formation and Early Years
Formed in 1993 after the dissolution of the band Sp!n, with Martin Rossiter joining as the new vocalist.
The band's name, Gene, was adopted as a fresh start after Sp!n's breakup.
Early singles like "For the Dead" and "Be My Light Be My Guide" showcased their emotive lyrics and dynamic sound.
Rise to Prominence
Released debut single “For the Dead” in 1994, earning critical acclaim and sparking comparisons to the Smiths.
Debut album Olympian (1995) reached No. 8 on the UK Albums Chart and produced hits like "Sleep Well Tonight" and the title track.
Their music resonated with audiences for its introspective themes of love, longing, and social reflection.
Commercial Success and Albums
Second album Drawn to the Deep End (1997) demonstrated a more ambitious sound, debuting at No. 8 in the UK.
Revelations (1999) tackled political and personal themes but marked a decline in commercial success, charting at No. 25.
The band’s final studio album, Libertine (2001), was released on their own label and showcased a more intimate, stripped-back approach.
Later Activities and Legacy
Played a celebrated set at the Royal Albert Hall in 1997 with a full orchestra, a career highlight.
After their split in 2004, members pursued various musical projects, with Martin Rossiter releasing solo work.
In 2014, their albums were reissued in deluxe editions, reigniting interest in their music.
Notable Facts
Gene won the inaugural NME Brat Award for Best New Act in 1995.
Their live album Rising for Sunset (2000) was one of the first-ever globally streamed webcasts, reaching an audience of over 60,000.
Martin Rossiter’s openness about his sexuality and mental health brought a rare vulnerability to the Britpop scene.
Defining Lyric
"Give me something I can hold" – Olympian
Discography
Olympian (1995)
Drawn to the Deep End (1997)
Revelations (1999)
Libertine (2001)
Essential Listening
“For the Dead” – Their debut single, which established their emotional and melodic signature style.
“Olympian” – A soaring anthem of devotion and longing, defining their early success.
“Fighting Fit” – A driving, up-tempo highlight from their second album.
Why You Should Be Listening to Gene Now
Gene’s music encapsulates the heart of Britpop with its poetic lyrics and rich, evocative melodies. They remain a touchstone for fans of emotional, intelligent rock that resonates across generations.
See you on down the road.
