In the mid-nineties, the UK was swept up in Britpop, and Gene were often caught in the middle of it. Released in 1995, their debut album Olympian arrived at the perfect time. While they were frequently compared to The Smiths due to Martin Rossiter’s vocal style, they had a soulful, widescreen sound that was entirely their own. This record represents the band at their most hopeful and grand, full of anthems that felt designed for big festival stages.

The overall sound is rooted in classic British guitar music – think big, melodic choruses and dramatic vocals. There’s a definite sense of yearning throughout the album, with songs that feel like they are reaching for something better. It’s less “laddish” than some of their Britpop contemporaries; there’s a vulnerability and a classic songwriting sensibility that gives it a bit more weight. It feels like an album for the outsiders who found their voice.

The title track “Olympian” is a massive, soaring ballad that remains one of the best songs of that era. “Sleep well tonight” and “Haunted by you” show off the band’s ability to write sharp, punchy guitar tracks with plenty of emotional bite. Rossiter’s voice is the focal point, ranging from a delicate whisper to a powerful roar, and the band matches that intensity perfectly.

Revisiting Olympian now is a great way to remember that there was more to the nineties than just the big rivalry between Blur and Oasis. Gene were a band with a lot of heart and some seriously impressive tunes. It’s an album that still feels triumphant and deeply human, making it a fantastic addition to any collection of classic British indie.