The Stems, an Australian garage punk band from Perth, were formed in late 1983 by vocalist and guitarist Dom Mariani. Their debut gig at the Old Civic Theatre in March 1984 showcased their sound, influenced by 1960s garage rock acts. In 1985, The Stems released their first single "Make You Mine"/"She's A Monster" on Citadel Records, which reached Number 1 of the independent charts in Australia. Their EP Love Will Grow – Rosebuds Volume One was released later that year and peaked at number 72 nationally. Their first studio album, At First Sight Violets Are Blue, released in 1987, debuted at Number 1 on the Australian alternative charts and number 34 on the mainstream charts. Despite critical acclaim, internal conflicts led to the band's disbandment that year. They reunited in 2003 for performances in Europe and Australia, and in 2007, released their second album Heads Up.
