Gisborne band The Broken Stone release track for mental health week

OUT OF THE BLACK: In support of mental health week, September 21-27, rock blues guitarist Adrian Athy has made a previously unreleased song available. Autumn, recorded by his former band The Broken Stone, includes Quannah Nickerson on vocals, Lincoln Wright on drums and Ryan Raggett on bass. Picture by Liam Clayton

A previously unreleased song by guitar-driven blues rock act The Broken Stone has been uploaded to music-streaming platform Spotify in support of mental health week.

Written by The Broken Stone's lead singer/guitarist, Adrian Athy, when he was going through a dark time, the first track, Autumn, on the band's self-titled album is nevertheless one of hope, of coming through, he says.

“Autumn focuses on the passing of depression. When you're in it, it's just what's happening right now. Hang in there. Things will get better.”

Depression is insidious, says Mr Athy.

“It can creep up slowly. If you're feeling down, talk to someone. People are willing to listen.”

Everybody has been affected by mental health issues, personally, or in a friend or family member.

“Listen to people when they talk and don't assume what they're talking about. You don't have to fix it for them.”

Autumn by The Broken Stone can be heard on Spotify under the Lazy Fifty banner.