Oct 21

Oct 21 November 13th at 7pm - Music Event in the Bookshop

Following a couple of successful music events in the bookshop we are really excited to welcome Paul Armfield, a fellow bookshop owner, who will be performing his latest EP Trees, as well as some of his other tracks.

Paul Armfield, returned to the Isle of Wight in the early 1990s after several transformative years in Eastern Europe. Since then, he has established himself as a prominent figure in the folk music scene, celebrated for his poetic songwriting and distinctive voice. Following his return, Paul released his first album, Songs Without Words (2003), which garnered critical acclaim and drew comparisons to icons like Cat Stevens and Nick Drake. His music, often labeled as Folk Noir, led to collaborations with bands such as Tindersticks and Lambchop. He continued to release six additional albums, including a musical adaptation of Tennyson’s poetry and the acclaimed Up Here (2013), which attracted attention from notable fans like Lauren Laverne and Caitlin Moran. His 2015 album, Found, featuring songs inspired by flea market photographs from Berlin, was hailed as "The best Berlin album of all time" by Radio Eins. His seventh album, Domestic, recorded in Germany, explored the theme of ‘home’ and resonated with audiences during a time of significant societal change, including Brexit. In 2024, Paul released the TREES EP, a unique collection of five songs designed to be experienced in a woodland setting, reflecting his artistic evolution and connection to nature.

Now in his mid-50s, Paul is a seasoned performer known for his warm and relaxed stage presence. While he seldom appears on UK stages, he has earned accolades from industry figures like Guy Garvey and Chris Difford.

In addition to his music career, Paul manages a bookstore, works as an occasional funeral celebrant, practices lino-cut art, and plays double bass. His musical contributions include playing on Michael Kiwanuka’s hit single "I’m Getting Ready" and collaborating with jazz pianist Greg Foat. He also showcases his skills as a musical-saw player under the alias "Stranger On The Saw.

Paul Armfield's journey is marked by artistic growth, critical success, and a deep connection to both music, literature and nature. His unique sound and diverse talents continue to resonate with fans across Europe.