Isle of Wight musician Paul Armfield has released two singles exclusively on Bandcamp, aiming to raise both awareness and funds for Men’s Mental Health Month this November.
The release, which features two deeply personal tracks, comes as part of Paul’s efforts to highlight mental health challenges that many men face.
A tribute to a dear friend
The first song, titled I’m Here, holds a special significance for Paul. He wrote and recorded it as a tribute to his close friend Trevor Smith, who was battling cancer at the time.
Paul describes I’m Here as a direct response to his earlier track, I’m Not Here, noting that this newer piece counters his previous, more introspective work with a focus on empathy and presence for another.
“Trev was a wonderful man and a superb drummer,” Paul recalls, listing Trevor’s extensive contributions to the music world. Trevor played with well-known acts including Level 42, The Rockingbirds, Divine Comedy, Miracle Mile and Nick Heyward, as well as performing on several of Paul’s own records.
Exploring the shadows of night
The second track, Night Thoughts, brings a different perspective. A soulful out-take from Paul’s album Domestic, the song dives into the feelings that can come during “those interminable long dark hours” when sleep is elusive.
Paul describes how Night Thoughts captures the struggles many face in the quiet of the night, a time when thoughts can take a darker turn.
This song explores those moments that can spiral downward and underscores the importance of mental health awareness.
Raising funds and awareness on Bandcamp
This exclusive release on Bandcamp gives fans a chance to support the cause directly. All proceeds will go toward supporting mental health initiatives, focusing on the challenges men face in seeking help and understanding.
For Paul, these songs are more than music; they are a personal statement and a call to support mental well-being in men, especially during Men’s Mental Health Month.
He finishes by saying,
“Both songs in one way or another are about the need to be able to talk about your feelings, and so it is fitting that all proceeds go to the brilliant MANUP? charity, who encourage men to talk and share their feelings, they offer many practical services and means of support, and ultimately seek to chip away at many of the stigmas surrounding men’s mental health.
“It’s time to stop using the term ‘man up’ and MANUP? seeks to rebrand that awful phrase. “
Head over to Paul Armfield’s Bandcamp page to make support the cause and make your purchase.
