Gem, a Dutch rock band from Utrecht, was formed in 2003 when vocalist Maurits Westerik joined guitarist Bas de Graaff and bassist Vincent Lemmen, later adding guitarist Simon Bonner. The group recorded its first demo in Studio Moskou, with Tony van Best on drums, and quickly gained attention after opening for The Libertines at Amsterdam’s Melkweg. In 2004, Tell Me What’s New was released on Excelsior Recordings, following a feature on 3VOOR12 and a national de Volkskrant article; the album spawned the single "Rise & Fall" (2004‑11‑29). The band’s touring schedule expanded with appearances at Noorderslag, the goNORTH festival in Aberdeen, and the Haldern Pop Festival in Germany, where they were later signed by Haldern Pop Records. Their second album, Escapades (2006), produced the single "Good To Know You" and earned positive reviews, leading to performances at SXSW and the Great Escape Festival. Subsequent releases included New (2008‑04‑21), Hunters Go Hungry (2011), and the live album Tension Tonight/ GemFM (2012‑04‑19). Throughout their career, Gem maintained a steady presence on Dutch rock charts and supported international acts such as Editors, while rotating lineup changes saw Wouter Rentema replace Ilco Slikker on drums in 2006.
