Born in 1957 in London Jim began studying the drums and bass as a child. Influenced by classic reggae, jazz and the music scene of London, he cites King Crimson, Fela Kuti and Duke Ellington as personal influences. In 1981 he started the band CARMEL with his cousin Gerry Darby and friend Carmel McCourt.
The band provided Jim with access to the music world as well as success. He discovered his desire to produce, and realised it with the release of GOOD NEWS in 1991. His impact and involvement with the band involved co-writing many of the groups songs throughout their 18 years together and managing the band in the mid 80s.
Jim's interest in African music has influenced his work throughout his career. He studied Ghanaian drumming in the early 80s and the CARMEL back catalogue includes numerous tracks that both use and mix African rhythms, often featuring UK resident African percussionists.
Because of his natural ability to support a group as a bass player Jim has always attracted artists of unique insights and styles who look to him for support and inspiration.
In 2000 he collaborated and toured with dancer/performer/poet Benji Reid on the highly successful trilogy The Waiting Room and he regularly works with a number of dancers and musicians from the North West of England.
In February 2004, Jim completed the soundtrack to Lemn Sissay's one man play 'Something Dark'. This received excellent reviews during it's UK tour, including Time Out pick of the week. For this piece Jim created a string quartet arrangement but using bass, cello, viola and violin. He also got Lemn in the studio to record a poem set against congas and 2 electric basses.
Currently Jim is working on projects with Xumo Nounjio (Nzi Dada) and is gigging with The Harry Moyaga Band plus is also gigging with the singer, painter and poet Wonder.
