Biography
Once recognized among England’s leading figures in avant-garde jazz flute performance, Robert George Downes, professionally known as Bob Downes, adopted a notably discreet presence after moving to Europe toward the close of the 1980s. Although he issued several striking recordings during the middle years of the 1970s, his output has remained sparse ever since. Proficient on more than twenty-five instruments, he has concentrated his efforts chiefly on flute, piano, and percussion, enlisting a broad range of supporting musicians across his projects. The first three of these releases—Open Music, Electric City, and Deep Down Heavy—were enriched by the contributions of rock guitarist Chris Spedding, whereas the later trio—Diversions in 1973, Episode at 4 A.M. in 1974, and Hells Angels in 1975—bore the distinctive imprint of Laurie Baker’s synthesizer work. In addition, Downes created multiple compositions for Ballet Rambert, now known as Rambert Dance Company and England’s oldest dance ensemble.