PAUL DOWNES - March 5, 2012

Even as a 15-year old he was causing wonderment in the folk clubs of Devon with his precocious skills and since then he has developed into one of the finest acoustic guitar players on the UK folk circuit. Among his schoolmates was a certain Steve Knightley but it was with another local contemporary, Phil Beer, with whom he first achieved national acclaim. The Downes & Beer duo were a hugely successful live act which also produced some memorable albums.

Between times he has toured the US with Pete Seeger and Sara Grey, recorded with Richard Thompson and shared the Albert Hall stage with Show of Hands.

Paul is the only performer to have been booked at our session who is not currently based in Sussex but he is a former resident and has, for many years been an occasional member of the band I used to play in, the Brighton Taverners.

"Wonderful ... Magnificent throughout" -Melody Maker

An incisive guitarist...there is smoothness and depth in his voice...estimable songwriting skills. -Folk Roots

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