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DOWN Rises Again: New Album and Tour to Ignite Metal's Inferno

By Jason •
Philip Anselmo's heavyweights gear up for a blistering summer tour and a long-awaited album release.

The metal gods have spoken, and the mighty DOWN are back to reclaim their throne. After tearing through the Mystic Festival in Gdańsk, Poland, the band has unleashed a fresh video of their June 5 performance on the MrTime2Travel YouTube channel. This is not just a blast from the past; it’s a prelude to their impending North American domination.

With the tour dubbed "Strap It Down" kicking off in Atlanta, Georgia on August 15 and wrapping in Shakopee, Minnesota on September 4, DOWN will be joined by titans HELMET and SPIRIT IN THE ROOM. This run promises to be a relentless onslaught, culminating in a special performance supporting SLAYER, marking a fierce reunion of metal’s finest. The band will also take part in Zakk Wylde's “Berzerkus” festival, sharing the stage with the likes of LAMB OF GOD and BLACK LABEL SOCIETY in August, ensuring this summer will be one for the ages.

Fans can also feast their ears on DOWN’s audacious cover of Dr. John's "Right Place, Wrong Time," which has been unleashed onto all streaming platforms following its Mardi Gras debut earlier this year. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg, as guitarist Kirk Windstein reveals that the long-awaited new album is in the can and ready to be mixed. He stated, “It’s done. We just need to find the right person to mix it properly.” Expect a release by October, and if you’re a dedicated follower of DOWN, brace yourself for something monumental.

Windstein's passion for the new material shines through as he reminisces about the chemistry that sparked during songwriting sessions, likening it to the magic of the '90s when they crafted their iconic album, "NOLA." With contributions from every member, including surprising riffs from drummer Jimmy Bower and potent arrangements from Anselmo, this new collection promises to be a masterclass in heavy music.

Describing the recording process, Windstein emphasized the band’s commitment to authenticity, eschewing click tracks to capture the raw energy of their live performance. “It’s real music,” he asserts. The anticipation surrounding this album is palpable, with Windstein stating, “It’s either gonna totally be this huge thing or just flop.” But for those who bleed for DOWN, the prospect of a killer record looms large on the horizon.