Leisure: The Smooth Sound of New Zealand Soul and Funk

Leisure is a New Zealand musical collective known for crafting a signature blend of soul, funk, and R&B. The group has cultivated a dedicated international following through their smooth, groove-centric sound and self-released projects.

Early Career

Formed in the 2010s, Leisure emerged from the collaborative efforts of musicians already active in the New Zealand music scene. The collective's early work focused on developing their cohesive, laid-back sound, characterized by warm basslines, crisp guitar work, and soulful vocals.

Breakthrough

Leisure gained significant attention with the release of their self-titled debut album, 'Leisure', in 2016. The album's lead single, "Got It Bad," became a standout track, encapsulating their smooth aesthetic and helping to establish their reputation for quality, self-produced grooves.

Key Tracks

Got It Bad - This track served as a defining introduction to the band's sound, blending funky guitar riffs with a smooth, infectious chorus.

All Over You - A prime example of their soulful side, this song highlights the group's knack for crafting atmospheric and emotive R&B.

Know You Better - This release showcases Leisure's evolution, maintaining their foundational groove while exploring more layered production and vocal delivery.

Following their debut, Leisure continued to build their catalog with a consistent stream of singles and EPs, including the 'Twister' EP. Their music maintains a focus on instrumental warmth and a relaxed, summery vibe that draws from classic funk and modern alternative R&B. The collective operates with a DIY ethos, often self-releasing their music and directing their own visual creative output.

Artists with a similar smooth, groove-oriented approach include other New Zealand acts like L.A.B and the soulful sounds of Australian group Hiatus Kaiyote. The relaxed, funk-infused style also finds parallels in the work of acts like Tom Misch.