Career
He has appeared on eight albums with bands, three highly acclaimed solo albums and has over 150 session credits. He has toured every concert venue, theatre and festival in Britain, plus many tours in the United States of America and Europe, as well as appearing in cabaret in the West Indies and newsreading on United States radio. Born in Exeter, Devon, Downes played classical guitar in his youth.
He played a solo recital in Westminster Abbey at the age of 16 and subsequently took up folk music
After giving up a promising academic career, he went on the road as half of the folk duo. The pair met Bill Zorn, who had just left the Kingston Trio, and formed the.
When Zorn returned to the states, Downes toured with Pete Seeger before being asked to sit in on the first gig. The are an Anglo/Irish roots band with whom Downes has recorded five albums.
He still plays with the and as a solo artist, as well as occasional reunions with Philosophy Beer and
Paul has recently formed a collaboration, several of whose songs he had previously recorded. Paul plays guitar for Mick"s folk opera and they are currently (2009) touring as a duo. He is a supporter of Exeter Rugby club
