Heavy metal supergroup DOWN, featuring vocalist Philip H. Anselmo and guitarist Kirk Windstein, has completed recording sessions for its long-awaited follow-up to 2014’s Down IV – Part Two. According to Windstein, the band is currently seeking a mixer for the album, which they anticipate releasing by October. The group also recently returned to the live stage, with fan-captured footage of their June 5 performance at Poland’s Mystic Festival now circulating online via the MrTime2Travel YouTube channel.
How does the new material compare to the band’s debut?
The upcoming record captures the raw, collaborative spirit of the band’s 1995 debut, NOLA. Windstein told Concrete Spew in April 2024 that the songwriting process was unforced and stripped of unnecessary complexity. By avoiding over-arranged tracks and focusing on “old-school” chemistry, the band members—Anselmo, Windstein, Pepper Keenan, Jimmy Bower, and Pat Bruders—replicated the natural songwriting dynamic that defined their early career.
What is the status of the band’s North American touring schedule?
DOWN will embark on the “Strap It Down” North American tour starting August 15 in Atlanta, Georgia. The two-week headlining run, supported by HELMET and SPIRIT IN THE ROOM, concludes on September 4 in Shakopee, Minnesota, with a performance supporting SLAYER. The tour also includes high-profile festival appearances, specifically the 2026 “Berzerkus” events in Scranton, Pennsylvania, on August 28 and Wantagh, New York, on August 29.
Why did the band pivot from a covers album to original music?
While the group initially intended to release a covers record, they found the process of arranging obscure songs took as much effort as writing new material. Windstein explained to the Gas Masks & Hand Grenades podcast that after gathering in January 2024, the band generated seven song ideas in just three days. This creative momentum led them to abandon the covers project entirely in favor of original compositions, which they believe will resonate strongly with long-term fans.
How has the band’s professional backing changed?
In April 2025, DOWN signed a deal with Nuclear Blast Records. The label announced plans to re-release key portions of the band’s past catalog on vinyl, citing a desire to bring the group’s history back into the spotlight. This partnership marks a significant institutional shift for the band, which previously released the Down IV EPs through Down Records and ADA Music.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the new DOWN album be released?
According to guitarist Kirk Windstein, the band is aiming for a release window around October, pending the finalization of the mixing process.
Who is in the current lineup of DOWN?
The band consists of vocalist Philip H. Anselmo, guitarists Pepper Keenan and Kirk Windstein, drummer Jimmy Bower, and bassist Pat Bruders.
Is the new album being produced by an outside party?
No. Windstein confirmed the band is self-producing the record, though they are currently looking for an external engineer to handle the final mix.
Are you looking forward to the new DOWN record? Share your thoughts on their return to the “NOLA” sound in the comments below, or subscribe to our weekly newsletter for the latest updates on the “Strap It Down” tour.
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