The Ottawa-based rock quartet Downstone Rhythm delivers high-energy tunes with a signature groove and classic feel that separates them from all others in the genre. New to the scene this year, they are already drawing big crowds and a dedicated fan base at Ottawa's local club scene, playing venues such as Zaphod Beeblebrox and The Rainbow.
From the opening riff, they win over any timid crowd, and amp up the energy with a high-voltage performance that never loses velocity. Fans constantly compare Downstone Rhythm live shows to the best rock shows they've seen. Tight musicality. Creative lead guitar. Driving rhythm. Impressive vocals. These are some of the reasons why fans love their sound.
Though they are all young, their music has a mature depth and texture, from the complex arrangements to the haunting lyrics. Original hard-driving songs, including The Dose, You Should Have Known Me by Now and the softer, introspective ballad, A Place to Call My Own, are crowd favorites.
The band members are as eclectic as their music and include Sri Lankan singer Theepan Vijay, Calgary-born bassist Matt Stobo, Ottawa native Evan Camm on drums, and Trinidad/Irish guitarist Paddy Kehoe.
Kehoe, Camm, and Stobo have been playing together and creating original music for eight years, dating back to high school bands. Downstone Rythym officially formed in 2006, when vocalist Theepan brought the right rich rock vocals to the group.
The band's career was almost cut short in June 2008 when drummer Evan accidentally severed his left wrist while working construction. The injury was severe; he severed 12 tendons, both arteries and a nerve. He faced the real prospect of never being able to play drums again. After emergency reattachment microsurgery and months of rehabilitation, Evan began playing again with a greater passion than ever before. Downstone Rhythm made an unbelievable comeback.
Any stage, any time, Downstone Rhythm never fails to deliver.
