Dear Willow is the creative voice of Sunshine Coast based artist Em-J Dau. Since 2012 Dear Willow has transformed from poet to a solo acoustic act and embraced her sound through a full band. A testament to its creator’s talent, Dear Willow is both Em-J’s nom de plume and her persona artistica: a vessel that can change shape and direction, allowing her to truly explore her creativity.
New single HOLD is a cautionary lament documenting the artist’s experiences of frustration in feeling simultaneously stuck, and rushed forward, with the gentle undertones of a friend breaking bad news. This latest release has a tapestry of intricate layers whilst the focus still remains on Dear Willow’s original foundations. The result is soulful, melodically organic and unapologetically real.
Dear Willow’s first single, Father’s House (2015) introduced Em-J’s uniquely smoky voice to the big wide world, capturing a beautiful sense of yearning that is often present in her lyrics. As her song writing developed, flourishes of indie-rock and post-grunge began to infiltrate her earthy tones. Upbeat and optimistic, yet delicate and vulnerable, Dear Willow’s next single When It Burns (2016) proved that
Em-J’s songs had translated well and realised new heights as a full-band sound. It was time to hit the studio…
Through the evolution of her band building to a four piece, the upcoming songs marry Em-J’s sophisticated lyrics and signature sound with punchy guitars and solid groove. Dear Willow introduces a further refined style, staying true to the frankness and honesty that is present throughout much of her music but emerges a confident and demanding front woman with tales to tell and is supported by her fellow creatives Callan Holstein (drums), Melinda Huurdman (lead guitar) and Dean Genge (bass).
Sounding as authentic on stage as she does in the studio, the honesty in Em-J’s music is captured exquisitely on both HOLD and her soon be released debut EP.
Upcoming 2018 shows
Saturday June 16 – Your Place Bar, Mooloolaba
Thursday July 12 – Sol Bar, Maroochydore
Friday August 10 – Ric’s Bar, Brisbane
