Stream Jem Cassar-Daley’s debut album Tattoos Used To Come Off In The Pool
Debut albums don’t just fall from the sky; they emerge from a rich wellspring of lived experience. For singer-songwriter Jem Cassar-Daley, her long-awaited first full-length album, Tattoos, is more than just a collection of songs—it is a profound journey through the messy, beautiful, and often bumpy path into adulthood.
The new record, released by Sony Music Australia, is deeply personal, exploring themes of growth, shifting relationships, and the confidence that comes from fully inhabiting one’s life. Cassar-Daley explains that the album itself is a reflection of this process, noting that each song feels like a personal story, much like a tattoo that marks a chapter in time.
“A few years ago, I didn’t think I had the confidence to tell a producer how I felt and what I wanted,” she reflects. “But now I’m so invested in each of these songs and each story, and I had a say in every decision made. I feel totally connected to this album.”
The sound of Tattoos beautifully blends indie-pop sensibilities with touches of country music, creating an emotional landscape that is both relatable and unique. The majority of the nine tracks on the album were lifted directly from Cassar-Daley’s original demos, underscoring a philosophy that the core of the music is built on authentic stories. Whether the track features an 808 beat or is stripped down to a simple piano and guitar, the common thread is always Cassar-Daley’s personal narrative brought to life.
Jem Cassar-Daley is already a celebrated figure in the Australian music scene, with recognition spanning multiple awards, including the AIR and National Indigenous Music Awards. Her talent has already earned her a piece of real estate on Brisbane’s Brunswick Street Mall, celebrating her place in the Valley’s Walk of Fame.
Her artistic prowess has been formally acknowledged through accolades like the 2026 Queensland Music Awards, where she received recognition for songs such as “Kiss Me Like You’re Leaving,” including Song of the Year. This recognition speaks to the depth and resonance of her voice and songwriting.
As a chip off the old block, Cassar-Daley carries the legacy of her father, the national treasure Troy Cassar-Daley. This heritage informs her work, allowing her to write from the heart while performing with the skill of an experienced musician, playing multiple instruments and captivating audiences on stage.
The momentum surrounding Tattoos is building rapidly. Cassar-Daley is set to support the new record with a dynamic schedule, including appearances at BIGSOUND 2026 and a national headline tour this September, stopping in Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane. This touring schedule follows a history of sold-out tours and performances at major industry events like SXSW Sydney and The Great Escape in the U.K.
She is currently opening for Vera Blue on the fellow Australian artist’s Modern Rituals National Tour, solidifying her position as a powerful and connected voice in contemporary music.
Buy on Amazon
Credit
