Gene - Libertine
2001 / 73:54 Minutes / 14 Tracks + 1 Hidden Track / Studio
Release Date: August 6, 2002 - Contra Music/BMG
Produced by: Hugh Jones/Stephen Street/Gene
Website: www.genemusic.com

Reviewed by Matt Rowe on September 11, 2002

BritPop is seemingly everywhere due to the success of Coldplay. But that assessment isn't a fair one for Gene, a band that I worked hard on my CD player. There are so many things to say about them that brings different lights to shine upon them. I write this review after 30 or more intensive listens. There is reason for this. I needed to shake the comparisons, some that pointed to mid 90s Depeche Mode and Morrissey/Smiths and some that pointed to earlier Spandau Ballet. But everytime I was going to dismiss this CD and Gene as a formulaic reproduction of those bands, I had their tunes banging around in my head.

Now, let me tell you. The tunes are catchy, they're good. Gene has talent. They write great songs that entertain and actually exceed the lines of the genre thay have been cast into. On "Let Me Rest", there is a great organ part that exhales the breath of the 60s and the explorations doesn't stop there. After a while you realize that Gene has popped all over the terrain of music. Pretty guitar and great vocals, playable radio tunes; the whole package.

We're approaching a year since the UK release of this disc but the reality is that it hasn't been afforded the proper chance to be what it should be in this time of Coldplay infatuation. With 14 gorgeous (wish I could think of another word to use other than that) songs that are well written , genre hopping, time crossing, and beautifully expressed, Gene has produced an album that excels in its quality.

To hear the radio ready "Let Me Move On" is immediately captivating. It was an excellent choice as a first track because it simply snares you and entices you to move forward. The mix of styles on the songs add to their intrigue; listen to the psychedelic guitar lines of "Spy In The Clubs" and you get treated to old meets new and stirred to produce a potpourri of exclusive rock songs. It may be hard to understand but it's there.

The Smiths/Depeche Mode sound is exemplified on "Does He Have A Name?" The music on "Yours For The Taking" is simply ecstactic pop that is resilient and show a surprising flexibility in its incorporation of variable instrumentation to fashion itself. Synth, stylish guitar, and distinctive vocals that melodically blend together with heartbreaking lyric to make memorable musical nuggets that are as much fun unearthing now in 2002 as they obviously were in 2001 when Libertine was released.

On the 14th track is a hidden bonus song called "Who Said This Was The End" and is nestled within "Somewhere In The World". There is a long pause. Either fast forward or just stay with it.

DISC

The production of this disc is strong and beautifully expansive. Making use of L/R channels to create an appropriate soundstage and to playfully push instrumental pieces through is lush and creative.

PACKAGING

Many times after being sent a review disc, the CD comes without a cover. This makes it impossible to give the consumer an accurate description of the whole package. I, as always, extend the offer for the label or band to resend the disc with cover so that I may complete this part.

THE FINAL SAY

Gene, on their 4th release, has hit a triple and stands in scoring position to hit the big time. Libertine is a strong album and I look forward to the next release from this band. A buy!!

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