Dreaming of drums - Percussionist works on album, aspires to greatness

Krista Henry, Staff Reporter

In the midst of preparing to record his world-percussion album, freelance percussionist Christopher Downer has even bigger dreams. Apart from playing the electronic and acoustic percussions, Downer is also a graphic designer.

The percussionist is able to use a number of styles such as djembe, congos, bongos, timbale, tambourines, blocks, bells, drum sets and more. With that list, Downer has mesmerised many with sinuous beats and infectious playing.

The 29-year-old, who resides in Kingston and is working mainly with the roots band No-Maddz, has been in love with making music from an early age.

He recently told The Sunday Gleaner, "My love for music came from being in Ashe, a performing Arts company, from the age of 15. I used to be on the stage, but during the performances I was focused on the music, especially the drummer. I have to give big thanks to Michael Holgate and Conroy B Wilson, and all the members of the Ashe family for 14 wonderful years and the level of training I received during my stay".

Having been tutored by Ashe, Downer, has travelled the world, playing with various artistes. According to Downer he has played in France, Italy, Spain, Thailand, throughout the United States and the Caribbean. He also performed at events such as Jamaica Jazz & Blues festival, Sting, Reggae Sumfest, Rebel Salute, Digicel Rising Stars, No-Maddz's the Trod Live and, most recent, the United Way Kenneth 'Babyface' Edmonds Concert.

He has also worked with acts such as Jah Cure, Tony Rebel, Queen Ifrica, Etana, Everton Blender and Fanton Mojah, but one day hopes to work with the likes of Jimmy Cliff and Third World.

He told The Sunday Gleaner, "In the future, I still want to tour, record, get my Krispercs label going and to set a higher standard where upcoming percussionist can follow," he said.

No man is an island and Downer is just as aware of this as anyone else. There have been those who have helped him along the way and he has continued to thank them.

"Right now I have to give thanks to all those who have supported me such as friends Chevaughn Clayton and Andre La Touche," he said.