For the first time in almost 20 years, Australian guitar-pop icon Dom Mariani returns with a new solo album – and in this exclusive Noise11 interview, he sits down with Paul Cashmere to talk about the long road to “Apple Of Life”, his legacy with The Stems, DM3 and The Someloves, and why melody still matters.
Dom explains how his first solo album in 2005 cleared the decks creatively before new chapters opened with The Majestic Kelp and six albums with Datura4. Over two decades he continued writing his signature melodic, hook-laden material – and eventually realised he had the foundations of a new solo record. With pedal steel textures, soul influences and maturity earned from a lifetime in music, Apple Of Life bridges his classic jangle-pop DNA with new depth and warmth.
Fans of The Beatles, Badfinger, Big Star and The Raspberries will instantly hear those melodic roots, while subtle country, blues and soul flavours show a songwriter still searching and evolving. Dom also shares insight into The Stems’ ongoing life – new recordings, European shows and renewed energy – along with memories of SXSW trips, WA’s diverse music culture, and passing musical inspiration down to family.
He discusses writing habits, the spark behind standout tracks like World On Its Head and Breaking Point, and how growth and soulfulness guided this new chapter. With live shows planned for March in Australia and Europe in April, Dom hints at a career-spanning setlist mixing classics with fresh material.
A rare deep dive with one of Australia’s great modern songwriters – blending nostalgia, renewal, and the enduring power of melody.
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