Paul Downes

The guest of Jurassic Folk, in Seaton last week was the quite magnificent Paul Downes.

Bob Kirkpatrick

He presents an enigma because, as you listen to him, you can’t help thinking why is not a performer of his calibre much better known?

Fortunately, he is known well enough to have attracted a good audience at Jurassic Folk, who were treated to an evening of complete bliss.

It is difficult to highlight any particular aspect; he plays immaculate guitar in a huge range of styles, his voice has that quality that makes you think you just want to listen to it all night, and his choice of material ranges from the well known to the unheard of, and includes several quite brilliant songs of his own.

All in all, he is the unshowy but complete master, the Roger Federer of the folk world.

As if that were not enough, support on the night was provided by two other consummate performers.

First, Jurassic’s own Bard of Seaton, Ted Dowse, who led the audience into amazing adventures in song and prose of fantasy and humour, an absolute one-off.

Second was Bob Kirkpatrick from Broadmayne, over the border in Dorset, himself a fine singer, guitarist and songwriter, and in fact our guest Paul Downes sang one of Bob’s songs in his set.

Altogether, an evening that left the audience feeling that the world was a lot better than when they came in.

The next event is the last singers night before the summer break in August, and will be on Wednesday, July 18, held at the Grove, Seaton, with doors open at 7.15pm for a start at 7.45pm prompt.

All singers, musicians, poets and onlookers are very welcome to drop in, but to ensure a spot it is best to phone up first.

It is, as usual, free admission, and lots more information can be had by phoning 01297 20064 or checking out www.eastdevonfolk.org

Peter Arnold