Audiences readily connect with Allison's sense of humor, touching lyrics, and intimate and earnest performing style. With a Masters of Fine Arts in Theatre (now a Western Michigan University professor), Contemporary Folk Singer/Songwriter Allison Downey is a captivating performer and natural storyteller whose songs range from traditional folk to more rhythmically and dynamically complex arrangements. Her material includes whimsical pop songs, rocking love songs, social commentary, and melancholy laments.
Often considered "a cross between Natalie Merchant and Judy Collins," this native Washingtonian (DC) honed her craft in Austin, TX before bringing her style of music to her current home of Kalamazoo, Michigan. Since 2004, Allison has been performing with her partner in music and life, John Austin. Allison's "Midwestern Urban Folk" originals are complimented by the dynamic grooves of John's six-string bass.
Allison's newest recording, Across the Sea (2008), produced by Michael Crittenden of Mackinaw Harvest Records features her husband, John, Annie & Rod Capps, and Michael Crittenden & Brian Morrill of "Troll for Trout." The songs from the new album have already produced accolades for Allison, including the People's Choice Award for Texas' 2007 Wildflower! Arts & Music Festival Performing Songwriter Contest. Allison's debut CD, Wind at Your Back (Little Ditty Records, 2002), produced by veteran performers Christine Albert & Chris Gage, has been heard on radio stations around the country. Both CD's are available at a variety of stores and on her website: www.allisondowney.com
AWARDS
• 2007 Wildflower! Arts & Music Festival Performing Songwriter Contest – People's Choice Winner!
o "All that Matters" & "Almost" – Across the Sea
• 2005 International Songwriting Competition - Quarter Finalist
o "Wind at Your Back" – Wind at Your Back
• 2004 Susquehanna Music & Arts Festival Singer-Songwriter Contest Finalist - ** "Wind at Your Back" & "Cate's Cradle" – Wind at Your Back
• 2004 South Florida Festival Performing Songwriter Competition Finalist
o "Wind at Your Back" & "Cate's Cradle" – Wind at Your Back
• 2003 Wildflower! Arts & Music Festival Performing Songwriter Contest - Semi-finalist –
o "Wind at Your Back" & "Fallen Angel" – Wind at Your Back
Please visit Allison's web site.
Allison Downey 