A NEW band from Clydebank are raising awareness about the impact alcohol can have on mental health by releasing a single from their debut EP.

Indie band Arcade State released their song earlier this month which discusses the impact of alcohol addiction.

The song, The Rabbit Hole, was written after a close friend of the band battled with addiction issues and received help from mental health charity Back Onside.

Lead singer and guitarist Ciaran Murray told the Post: “People don’t realise that alcohol addiction can happen to anyone.

“It isn’t just the person with the addiction suffering - friends and family have to go through the pain also.

“It is an extremely important issue that needs to be spoken about more.

“I personally find this a huge issue in our society and this is a big reason why I would like to raise awareness about the impact alcoholism can have on your life.

“There really needs to be more support in the community for people.”

The band, formed in Clydebank last year, will be donating all proceeds from the song to the charity in hope that it can raise awareness of their work for people suffering with alcohol and mental health issues.

Ciaran added: “We knew we wanted to create this song as part of our EP.

“During lockdown we got together to brainstorm ideas and after a few months created something that people can relate to.

“I think that is why this song is so special because as a band we understand the battles from both perspectives.

“We want people to know that they aren’t alone. There are some amazing organisations that can help, so don’t be afraid to open up.”

Back Onside delivers programmes and workshops that are focused on sport, music, drama and art to young people who are struggling with their mental health.

They also work with the wider community to raise awareness of social issues, mental health and disabilities to help reduce the stigma and discrimination which often surrounds these areas.

And if you like what you hear from listening to The Rabbit Hole, you won’t have to wait long for more, as Arcade State’s debut EP is due for release in early 2021.

Ciaran added: “Each song is different and has its own unique sound. We all have worked hard since last year to create the perfect album that resonates in the local music industry.

“Everyone who appears in the music video has at one point went through a difficult time in their lives and individually been helped massively by the charity. There are no actors or actresses taking part, these are all real people and we’d like to personally thank each one of them for taking this on to get the message across.”

The Rabbit Hole is now available on all platforms.