Multiple JUNO award winner Mike Downes has been a prominent fixture both within the Canadian music scene and abroad, praised for his limitless versatility, seemingly effortless technique and uniquely melodic approach to the bass. Mike is not only an award-winning jazz bassist, but is recognized as a complete musician, equally masterful as a composer, arranger and educator. Check out his music on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, follow him on social media and check out more on this site. 

“One of my favorite bass players”  Pat Metheny

"As gifted a composer as he is a bassist"  International Society of Bassists

“This bass ace is incapable of letting you down”  Midwest Record

“Root Structure” explores lyrical compositions with a deep underlying structural integrity. 5/5 - This album is as close to perfect as it is possible to get and fully warrants its rating here."  Alan Musson, UK Vibe 

“One of the most intriguing and innovative small group jazz recordings of the year”  Lesley Mitchell-Clarke, theWholeNote

"Mike’s time playing is delightfully inventive...his lines are clear, hip, and agile. His technique and intonation are extraordinary"   Kim Richmond, Jazz Player Magazine  

Downes' playing is marked by an unerring and versatile technique, the kind of bass playing that's never static yet nevertheless establishes a firm foundation” Textura

THE WAY IN WAS OFFICIALLY RELEASED ON MARCH 1, 2024!

Physical CDs available on this site - Shop menu 

CD and digital version on Bandcamp - https://mikedownes.bandcamp.com/album/the-way-in

 

The newest Mike Downes recording The Way In features Robi Botos, Ted Quinlan and guest percussionists Joaquin Nunez Hidalgo & Davide Direnzo! 

“There are albums that leave a mark on you from the very first track, leaving a familiar imprint, and that’s what happens with this album. Mike Downes, a composer and double bassist, has a serious melodic sense and offers particularly luxurious and well-thought-out arrangements here.” Thierry de Clemensat – Paris Move

 

Mind Mirrors, Mike's new solo bass recording, released in 2022, is available on all streaming services!

“Each piece feels like a well-rounded story…Mind Mirrors affords an opportunity to appreciate

his artistry in an even fuller sense.” Textura

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