Coole & Downes

Coole & Downes is a newly-formed musical partnership between banjo-pickin' Chris Coole, a true veteran of the international bluegrass & old-time circuits, and Simone Downes, one of the brightest new flames in Canadian country songwriting.  Joining Loretta Lynn's voice with Johnny Cash's attitude, Simone is remarkable.  With her band (One Hundred Dollars) and on her own, Simone writes heartbreaking, journalistic and hyper-specific story-songs about the things we don’t like to talk about: a truly uncompromising songwriter.  Her stage presence is beyond compelling, punk rock poise layered onto country truth and grit.

Chris Coole isn't just Simone's guitar teacher - he's also a true inspiration for this emerging musical force. Growing up, Simone was habitually late for her Thursday classes, thanks to High Lonesome Wednesdays - Coole's legendary residency at the Silver Dollar with the all-star Crazy Strings band.  Coole is a prize-winning banjo player, a deeply sensitive accompanist, and a lovely songwriter in his own right.   This is a rare duo performance by two gems in the rough of Canadian roots music.

Chris Coole - Old Dog