Live at the Gardens
JEM CASSAR-DALEY
SONS OF THE EAST
THELMA PLUM
Live At The Gardens returns to Melbourne for its annual run of shows, and tonight’s line up showcasing an exceptional group of artists.
As the sun sets, Jem Cassar-Daley kicks off the evening, the daughter of Troy Cassar- Daley. With her Indie-pop with soulful, reflective, and storytelling-focused lyrics the crowd adores her instantly. While her Dad is well known, Gem proves that music talent certainly runs in the family and she’s inherited her beloved Dad’s talent for entertaining audiences and connecting through powerful song lyrics. Jem is the perfect fit alongside a line up of folk and indie artists, providing entertainment for the early arrivals, eager to get the show underway.
Sons of The East are relatively new to festival stages, and they kick off a dance party with their folky vibes. They resemble a little bit of Boy & Bear or Mumford & Sons , with their wholesome sound. They really are a bit of a pleasant surprise, and definitely a band to watch- big things are surely on the horizon for them. The blues artists warm up the cold and windy evening with a fantastic performance- and anyone who wasn’t a fan has been rapidly become one.
Thelma Plum, a proud Gamilaraay artist, arrives in a cute black bubble skirt and geometric top, looking absolutely stunning. She paces the stage, waving to fans and a little overwhelmed at the large crowd. She’s sweet, her voice absolute perfection. Songs like ‘ Nobody’s Girl’ are melancholic but achingly beautiful, delivered with a delicate voice. She is at times self deprecating- calling herself a school teacher and joking about drinking too much water. She is so delightful to watch that she captures hearts. Throwing in a cover of Meredith Brooks’ 1997 hit
‘ Bitch’ she wraps up the evening with a bang, proving again what a delightful performer she really is- making everyone fall in love.
Live At The Gardens is a wonderful mini- festival that showcases some of Australia’s best talent and is the perfect end of summer event. With food trucks, picnic vibes and a bar, it brings such a great atmosphere to Melbourne’s live music scene. Reminiscent of the bigger Day On The Green outdoor festivals, it’s a wonderful experience for music lovers and always provides a fantastic night out for music lovers of any genre.
Words and images by Amanda Lee Starkey

























