Gene Gallagher and his band Villanelle have taken their music to new heights, quite literally, performing an exclusive live set 109 metres above London as part of adidas and JD Sports’ latest music project.
Taking over Battersea Power Station’s famous glass Chimney Lift, the British alternative rock outfit became the first band to perform inside the landmark attraction, transforming the space into an intimate stage overlooking the capital.
The performance forms part of 'The Original (Live)', an ongoing series from adidas and JD that brings emerging musicians into unconventional locations. Created alongside music discovery platform Elevator Music, the latest instalment saw Gallagher joined by guitarist Ben Taylor, bassist Jack Schiavo and drummer Bleu Otis for a four-track set featuring “Hinge”, “Squeeze”, “Placebo” and the band's newest single, “Some Chew Lip”.
For Villanelle, the performance marks another moment in a busy year. Having released their debut EP, 'Measly Means', earlier in 2026, the four-piece have continued to build momentum with appearances at Reading & Leeds, Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo and Governor’s Ball, bringing their grunge-influenced, guitar-heavy sound to audiences on both sides of the Atlantic. The band hasn't stopped there, either. Next month, Villanelle will tour the UK, headlining shows in Glasgow, Manchester and London.
The Battersea performance builds on adidas and JD's wider 'The Original' campaign, which launched in September with Gene and his cousin Anaïs Gallagher. Centred on personal style and individuality, the project explores how a new generation is putting its own stamp on classic adidas Originals pieces, connecting the brand's sportswear heritage with contemporary music and youth culture.
While the original campaign focused on fashion, 'The Original (Live)' takes that conversation into the world of live music. Previous episodes have included Spanish artist MDA, who performed in collaboration with Gallery Sessions, a platform known for capturing performances in shop windows.
With Elevator Music, a platform recognised for staging DJ sets and performances inside lifts, the latest episode takes that concept to one of London's most recognisable buildings, offering a different perspective on both the city and Villanelle's music.
The full performance is available to watch via Elevator Music's YouTube channel, while the adidas Originals collection featured throughout 'The Original' campaign is available at JD Sports.
