British trio VILLANELLE announce the May 6 release of their debut EP Measly Means and share new single, ‘Placebo’.
The EP announcement continues the momentum that the band have taken into 2026, with a host of international tastemaker support at press and an inclusion in Radio 1’s Future Artists Ones To Watch With Sian Eleri plus repeated spins from John Kenndey at Radio X and SiriusXM.
After releasing their first two singles, ‘Hinge’ and ‘Measly Means’, VILLANELLE have emerged as one of the standout ones to watch on the young alt-rock scene. ‘Placebo’ only amplifies that: a maelstrom of gritty riffs and explosive sonics with an instantly-addictive hook. Ben Taylor (guitar) and Jack Schiavo (bass) provide the heavy wall-of-sound foundation that allows Gene Gallagher’s charismatic vocals and guitar to lead the charge.
Listen to ‘Placebo’ on the Manchester City Official playlist.
Of the new track, Gene says, “’Placebo’ is about heightened visualizations of post session anxiety.”
VILLANELLE’s three tracks to date will feature on their debut EP Measly Means, alongside two new songs. The EP marks the band’s first major release, drawing on influences from Alice In Chains, Soundgarden, Nirvana and Smashing Pumpkins, resulting in a forward-thinking collection of raw, coolly confident songs.
On the live front, 2025 saw the band playing a run of sold-out headline shows and gigs with the likes of Pastel and Overpass. VILLANELLE started 2026 finishing up a tour with Miles Kane and confirming a BBC Music Introducing Presents show at London’s Lower Third on March 5. The rest of their touring plans so far include high profile festivals such as Boardmasters, Neighbourhood Weekender and Victorious Festival plus international dates at the Governor’s Ball, Bonnaroo and Mad Cool Festival.
