New Orleans heavy metal veterans DOWN are returning with their first new studio album in years. Titled Volume V, the record will arrive on November 20 via Nuclear Blast Records, with the newly released “Blood Oath” serving as its first preview.
The new album brings together the band's current five-piece lineup: Philip H. Anselmo, Pepper Keenan, Kirk Windstein, Jimmy Bower and Pat Bruders. According to the band, the material grew naturally from face-to-face writing sessions at Anselmo's home studio, Nodferatu's Lair.
“Blood Oath” carries the familiar DOWN combination of heavy riffs, groove and blues-infused rock, while also drawing on the band's deep connection to their New Orleans roots.
“Volume V” will feature ten tracks, including “The Myth”, “Merciful Fate” — featuring King Diamond — and “Twice-Told Tales”.
The album was produced by Eddie Mapp and DOWN, mixed by Dave Fortman and mastered by Maor Appelbaum.
Volume V track listing:
The Myth
Merciful Fate
Turn Out The Light
The Message
Causeway Grief
Blood Oath
They Walk The Night
They Came From Dust
Ozz
Twice-Told Tales
DOWN formed in New Orleans in the early 1990s, bringing together musicians who were already involved in some of the city's most influential heavy bands. Their 1995 debut NOLA became the foundation of a career that has continued through albums including Down II, Over The Under and Down IV.
With Volume V, the band are now preparing to open another chapter in the DOWN story.
