It is Friday night and the weather is perfect, full moon in the sky and we are at the Beetle Bar, one of the coolest live music venues in Queensland's Capital, where The Stress of Leisure are launching their fourth album “Cassowary”.

The Bell Divers precede the headliners. The sound from this proficient four piece swings between “easy, breezy” party music to contemplative stoner rock that would suit couch loafing, staring into thin air while your mind explores the mysteries of the universe assisted by lyrics that ask the searching questions like “What do you think of love now it's over?” Hmmm I could answer that but I won't depress you.

The Stress of Leisure began in 2005 with Ian Powne (lead singer and guitarist) performing solo. The band is now a four piece who have made it all the way to their fourth album. After hearing them live I live with the regret of not learning of their existence sooner.

Powne keeps things interesting with vocal versatility that allows him to deliver a welcome mix of tone and pitch in every song, giving each of them their own unique sound. The easy going stage presence invites you in and makes you feel welcome. Hearing The Stress of Leisure perform live is an experience that sidles up to you at the bar and buys you a drink and then proceeds to entertain you for the rest of the evening with witty, intriguing tales that causes you to wonder at how life continually has the capacity to surprise and please you.

The Stress of Leisure sound conjures up for me, images of barreling down a desert highway in a red Chevrolet convertible, on route to the mansion of rich uncle Max, for a pool party that promises to be populated by the wealthy and famous. The band entertains visually as well as audibly with innovative antics like drumming with maracas and guest Bongo players who add another layer to the sound.

Get better acquainted with The Stress of Leisure at their website, Facebook page and Youtube clips and whatever you do, get to a gig next time you see them on the lineup.

Janelle Salmon