Mental health is something I have spent a lot of time trying to improve.
An artist unafraid to chart new musical waters, Astles has been praised for his dynamic vocal style, captivating melodies, artistic boldness and a delicate rawness to his sounds.
Alongside an exclusive look at his latest track ‘Things I know to Be True’ released through Eggy Records, we chat to Astles about how he keeps mentally healthy.
What have you learned about yourself over the past five years?
Five years ago I would have been 16, still in school and a lot different to who I am now. When you are 16, your world is really small because its all just relative to your mates and family. So I’ve learnt a lot from moving out and meeting new people. I’m better at taking time for myself now. I was really worried about letting people down when I was younger.
For what in your life do you feel most grateful?
I’m grateful for the group of people who really care for me and how I’m getting on. I know how lucky I am to have that because some people don’t and it makes a big difference. I wish I could show how grateful I am to these people. I’m also really grateful for the music community in Liverpool and all the amazing people who meet who all support each other. I’ve met all my best mates from music.
Do you have a daily routine of exercise or do you make it up as you go along?
I wish I had a daily routine, I probably should! But really, I mostly just do a lot of walking, it’s the only way I can get around really. I think walking is always good for time to think and can be really helpful for me if I’m feeling low. In terms of proper exercise I occasionally play football in the park but it never really goes further than that.
What three songs lift your spirits?
Sittin’ on the dock of the bay – Ottis Redding
Here Comes the Sun – The Beatles
Piano Man – Billy Joel
What advice do you over your friends when they’re feeling overwhelmed ?
When I’m feeling overwhelmed, I just want to know that someone cares and doesn’t think you’re the horrible person that you can feel you are, when you’re low. Just trying to tell people that you value them and that it can get better.
Finally, we like how your new track doesn’t pander to current conventions of cool. It’s just a great song, with no other pretentions. Could you tell us about it?
Thanks. I wrote the song over a morning, a couple of days after I got mugged. I think thats where a lot of the imagery in the song comes from really. So it really sums up my feelings around that time.
Mental health is something I have spent a lot of time trying to improve and work upon. I think a lot of people especially around my age are willing to talk about their mental health and wellbeing and having those conversations with people has been a big help for myself. I think something I’m trying to work on is consistency .
Consistently working on my wellbeing and doing the right things to look after myself, is something I’ve struggled with but I’m getting better.
Astles image by Pablo Broughton