The sounds of Central Queensland have helped inspire Rockhampton musician and songwriter Leon Smith to record his first album.

Entitled 'Yellow Moon', the 17-track album was recorded in Melbourne after Mr Smith, 23, was awarded a $4000 Queensland Arts and RADF grant.

Leon said while it was a bit daunting to be releasing his first album, he was happy he could launch it in his home town.

“This album is a part of who I am as well as a representation of where I grew up and what experiences I’ve learned from Rockhampton,” he said.

“Some of the tracks are purely instrumental and others tracks I sing; it’s really a reflection of my life so far.”.

Growing up in Rockhampton Leon was surrounded by musical influences, and started learning music as a child. He started playing the guitar at 13, first learning from a country and western musician.

He then trained with a classical and jazz guitarist before finding his musical feet with a more eclectic modern folk and classical style.

As a teenager he then began performing on a regular basis at the Rockhampton Art Gallery’s Sunday afternoon poets and musician sessions as well as at exhibition openings, weddings and other private functions.

He has also been involved in multi-medium art and music exhibitions in Rockhampton with such artists as Adrienne Prague and Alan Bartlett.

Last year, while living in Brisbane, Mr Smith played at the 2 Hi Festival at Southbank alongside artists from the Queensland Conservatorium of Music.

He has also completed a degree in Multimedia with Central Queensland University and is considering ways to combine his graphic computer knowledge with his music.

Last week, on Australia Day, he launched his album at the Paddy Go Easy bar in Alma Street.

The album is available for purchase at Inner Light, William Street for $20.

For more information please contact Mr Smith on 4927 6270 or 0403 243 396.