Founded by twin brothers, Psy and Dan Harrison, from the band Ceiling Demons – dual tree was set up as a means to promote independent and original live music. Having promoted charity concerts for the likes of CALM and Mind in the past – the duo have been awarded funding by Sky Blue, in collaboration with NYCC’s Stronger Communities program to help improve mental health and reduce suicide and self-harm in the Richmondshire district. Inspired by their experiences with the psychological condition, they have teamed up with Caleidoscope Counselling to put together a free all day event of therapeutic practices and music in Richmond, North Yorkshire entitled Alleviation.
Alleviation is the action or process of making suffering, deficiency or a problem less severe and as World Mental Health Day falls over the second week in October, with the theme of Mental Health Promotion and Suicide Prevention – dual tree are tying this sentiment into a special occasion on Saturday 12th October with the intention of making a positive impact directly within the local community by focusing on healing, awareness and creativity.
The events will be split into two halves and begin during the afternoon with A Day of Healing from 12pm-6pm. This will incorporate drop-in one to one counselling sessions and group therapy workshops in collaboration with Caleidoscope Counselling. These will all be free and open to any member of the public during the day. Sessions will include Songwriting for Therapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques, Sound Massage with Gongs and Mindfulness Relaxation and Visualisation. An Evening of Live Music will follow from 7pm – late, showcasing a range of live music acts displaying creativity and expression as a positive form of outlet for processing mental health conditions. The music aims to inspire, uplift and bring people together. This will also be free and open to all.
Headlining will be London-based cosmic punk rockers WACO (pronounced wake-oh) who are on tour in support of their forthcoming debut album Human Magic. With a growing fan-base and support from the likes of Daniel P Carter on Radio One’s Rock Show – The record has been an extremely intense journey for the band, but one that will offer solace upon release. Having lost bass player Chris late last year, they have continued to persevere and represent their comrade, making this a highly meaningful booking. Frontman, Jak, was also raised in the town and this will be a special homecoming not to be missed!
Joining them will be Sheffield-based, Richmond-born singer-songwriter Rosey PM who creates dazzling DIY dream pop with tinges of psychedelic soul and pyjama jazz. She’ll be bringing her super-cool, moonbathing live band for this special performance. Adding an eclectic nature to the line-up will be Durham’s whimsical wordsmith Faithful Johannes who releases his long awaited debut album ‘Thrills & Bills’ via Win Big Records this October.
Opening the evening will be local lads John Stainthorp & The Laughing Hearts who blend country and folk influences to craft beautifully soulful, uplifting and at times delicate songs. The evening will be hosted by the former Alabama 3 collaborator and local punk-poet Rantin’ Richie.
