The group, who began in the halls of Mulwaree High School after a push from teacher Russell Lieschke to form a band, will begin the year in swinging style among experienced musicians in the industry. 

The Bensley brothers, Thomas (vocals, guitar), and Lachlan (vocals, guitar) played as a duo through primary school to later join forces with Jack Steel (bass) and Travis Lichtenberger (drums). 

Lachlan joked the name ‘Leaving Reality’ was inspired by the characters Jack Steel who would often have long speeches that didn’t make sense.

Only last month the band performed in Circular Quay as part of Australia Day live entertainment hosted by Arts Unit, and has recently been invited to perform for Vibesfest.

“We really like the Blues Festival, you get to feel the music,” he said, admitting the band only dipped into the genre after being invited to perform at the 2015 Youth in Blues Night. 

“We think of it as a fun night to play and interact with the audience.” 

The explosive vocals from the Bensley brothers in combination with the refined synergy of Steel and Lichtenberger make ‘Leaving Reality’ a band that’s hard to walk away from. 

Age is forgotten on stage as the group simply don’t tackle the blues, but play as it as if it was their specialty.

There are many aspiring young performers in the district, according to Lachlan as he praised the local high schools for continuing to provide large scale performances for students who seek to pursue music as a profession. 

“The big thing would be to practice and gain experience at open mic nights around the area so you can play whatever you want, including blues, and build up experience,” he recommended to those itching to join the industry. 

‘Leaving Reality’ will play at 7pm at the Goulburn Club.

The festival will be hosted in eight venues across Goulburn from February 8-11.

 Artists set to perform include Lloyd Spiegel, Geoff Achison, Nick Charles, Justin Yap Band and The Excellent Smithers.