Busby Marou (pronounced Buz-bee Ma-roo) are an Australian rock duo originally from Rockhampton in Queensland.[1] The duo are characterised by their melodic guitar riffs and meaningful lyrics. The band primarily consists of Thomas Busby and Jeremy Marou, however several other musicians perform with the duo in concert.
Busby Marou is the first signing to Warner Music Australia’s indie imprint - Footstomp Records, and released their debut, self-titled album on June 24th, 2011, a record which includes their first single “Biding My Time”.
The band has recorded with and played in support of Pete Murray.[2] Their debut EP, the limited release The Blue Road was recorded at Pete Murray's personal studios in Byron Bay and produced by Anthony Lycenko who had worked with artists such as Murray, David Bowie and Shifter.[3] In 2010 they won the Indigenous Award at Brisbane's Q Song Awards and took out a Deadly for Most Promising New Talent in Music.[4]
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Tom Busby and Jeremy Marou crossed paths in Rockhampton. Jeremy is of Torres Strait Islander heritage, and both performers come from musical families. With similar musical interests the two combined to perform and write music.
2009 saw the duo as one of five successful applicants for ‘Breakthrough’ – A Federal Government initiative supporting emerging indigenous contemporary musicians. The award assisted in the production of the band’s debut, self titled album.
In late 2010, the boys were approached by former Managing Director of EMI, John O’Donnell, to feature as the only unsigned act on the ‘He Will Have His Way – Finn Brothers Tribute Album’. The album went ‘Gold’ within a month of release and was, predominantly, the inaugural introduction to Busby Marou for the Australian public. Their version of Crowded House's classic "Better Be Home Soon" did a great job of garnering interest within the music industry, while their classic song-writing and live show had them making friends wherever they played.
The debut, self-titled studio effort from Busby Marou has been described as “Glorious and genuinely original... The end result is compelling and beautiful", by the Sydney Morning Herald, who gave the outfit 4/5 stars for the release.
The Australian additionally gave 4/5 stars for the latest studio record, stating that “The overwhelming feeling that emanates from BUSBY MAROU is joy. The voices and close harmonies are as clear as Queensland sunshine, and the acoustic guitar playing of both men is both accomplished and expressive."
Their musical influences include elements of Crowded House, Elvis, Pearl Jam and Willie Nelson amongst others.[6]
Notable live performances include touring as support act to Pete Murray during the Toowoomba leg of his 2008 Australian Tour.[7] Busby Marou has also been a committed advocate of St Vincent's Hospital Toowoomba charity concerts, performing live in both September 2007 and again in November 2009.[8] Busby Marou have also supported Dolly Parton in her 2011 Better Day tour. On the 12th February 2011, Busby Marou performed at the Rugby League All Stars match at the Gold Coast.