Gene Reunites for Spectacular Comeback Show After Over 20 Years

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. A Reunion Decades in the Making
4. Preparing for the Big Stage
5. The Britpop Years: Reflections and Revelations
6. The Future: Exciting Possibilities on the Horizon
7. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Gene, the iconic '90s Britpop band, will perform together for the first time in over two decades on October 4, 2025, at Eventim Apollo, London.
• The reunion celebrates the 30th anniversary of their debut album, Olympian.
• Frontman Martin Rossiter reveals plans for an epic show featuring a mix of hits and deep cuts, with potential for more future performances.

Introduction

As the sun sets on the London skyline, a wave of nostalgia washes over fans of '90s indie pop. For the first time in over 20 years, the alt-rock band Gene is set to grace the stage once again, reigniting the spirit of Britpop that characterized their musical heyday. With their iconic debut album, Olympian, marking its 30th anniversary in March 2025, the band's reunion has been eagerly anticipated by both old and new fans alike. What has prompted this extraordinary comeback? The influence of music mogul Alan McGee and the timeless chemistry of the band members have all played a crucial role in bringing Gene back together—an event that promises to be nothing short of spectacular.

A Reunion Decades in the Making

Gene's reunion comes at a time when nostalgia for the Britpop era is resurging. Formed in 1993, the group quickly established itself as one of the defining acts of the genre, alongside contemporaries like Blur and Oasis. Their sound—a combination of jangly guitars, introspective lyrics, and Rossiter's distinctive voice—captivated a generation.

After their last performance at the now-defunct London Astoria in 2004, the band's trajectory took different routes. Rossiter pursued a career in teaching songwriting, while the rest of the band explored various personal and professional paths. Yet, as Rossiter notes, "When we sat down for the first time of the four of us being in the same room, the dynamics of the band literally hadn’t changed."

This familiarity and comfort with one another made the reunion feel right. They owed much of this resurgence to Alan McGee, the founder of Creation Records, known for managing some of the most significant Britpop bands of the era. Rossiter describes McGee as "one of those regional stage hypnotists in Adidas trainers," emphasizing how easily he can persuade people. "He does have a way with words," Rossiter admits, making their reunion seem almost predestined.

Preparing for the Big Stage

As excitement builds towards the concert date, the band is already deep into rehearsals. Rossiter expresses joy at the quickness with which the band has rediscovered their musical synergy. "We played alright. I was actually really impressed with them, especially Steve, because those guitar parts are not easy," he says, ready to return to his role as "the nation's favorite miserable indie star."

The show promises to be an "epic" experience, with Rossiter indicating that it won't just be a celebration of Olympian. "We will throw in what the young-uns call a couple of deep cuts," he laughs, hinting at a setlist of around 25 songs, leading to a potential two-hour showcase. Their passionate approach indicates they aren't taking this reunion lightly; there’s a conscious effort to deliver a performance that is both nostalgic and exhilarating.

The Britpop Years: Reflections and Revelations

Reflecting on their journey, Rossiter fondly recollects the vibrant music scene of the '90s. "I do have some incredibly fond memories, like witnessing someone throw up in Elton John's pocket or nearly having a fight with Grace Jones," he reminisces, showcasing a sense of humor about the tumultuous nature of fame. Perhaps most poignantly, he recalls an unexpected encounter with Keith Flint of The Prodigy, showcasing a side of Flint that many fans may not have known: "He was a really sweet, thoughtful man."

This ability to humorously weave stories from the past with a sense of familiarity is key to their appeal. The band's history is rich with colorful anecdotes, involving escapades with other iconic '90s acts while also marking the cultural significance that they carried during that era.

The Future: Exciting Possibilities on the Horizon

While the concert at Eventim Apollo is a monumental step for Gene, the potential for future performances hangs tantalizingly in the air. Rossiter suggests that they may do a series of warm-up gigs before the main event and expresses an openness to more shows beyond 2025. "We need to see how it goes, but I’m not averse to maybe treading the boards a few more times in 2026," he confirmed, leaving fans hopeful for a wider tour.

The band's desire to make this reunion feel like a grand event captures the essence of what they aim to achieve together—an experience that connects them not only to their past glory but also to new generations of fans.

FAQ

When is Gene's first live show after their reunion?

Gene will perform their first live show in over 20 years on October 4, 2025, at Eventim Apollo in London.

What is the significance of their upcoming performance?

The concert celebrates the 30th anniversary of their debut album, Olympian, and marks the band's return to the stage after a long hiatus.

Will they only play songs from Olympian?

No, while the concert will celebrate Olympian, the band plans to include a variety of deep cuts from their catalog, aiming for a setlist of around 25 songs.

What led to the reunion of the band?

Alan McGee played a significant role in persuading the band to reunite, fostering an environment where they could comfortably come together again.

Are there plans for more performances beyond the October show?

Yes, Rossiter has hinted at the possibility of additional shows in 2026, depending on how the October performance goes.

As Gene prepares to step back into the limelight, fans are left with the exhilarating prospect of reliving the magic of their music once again, as well as the assurance that their dynamic—rooted in familiarity and nostalgia—remains as strong as ever.