Down Announces 2026 Album Release with Nuclear Blast Records After Decade-Long Hiatus
Down, the legendary heavy metal supergroup featuring Philip H. Anselmo (ex-Pantera), Pepper Keenan (Corrosion of Conformity), and Kirk Windstein (Crowbar), has officially announced that they will be releasing a new full-length album in 2026 via Nuclear Blast Records. This marks their first full-length effort since 2007's Down III: Over the Under, ending a decade-long hiatus and reigniting excitement among metal fans worldwide.
The news comes after much speculation and anticipation. Guitarist Kirk Windstein recently revealed on The Jasta Show that the band has already made significant progress on the album, with drum and bass tracks completed. "Yeah, all the drum tracks are done and basically the bass tracks as well," Windstein confirmed.
Windstein also reflected on the band's songwriting evolution since their debut album, 1995's NOLA: "[Philip and I] talked about it kind of jokingly and stuff, but I'm, like, 'Dude, at some point I think you were just overthinking,' because it went from the simplicity of NOLA... to really being complex on a lot of songs on Down III: Over The Under." He alluded to a return to a more raw and organic sound, reminiscent of their earlier work.
According to Windstein, a recent writing session at Anselmo's home studio, Nodferatu's Lair, proved incredibly productive. "We got together on a Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and I think we had seven songs written," he exclaimed, highlighting the band's collaborative energy and riff-writing prowess.
Nuclear Blast Records has expressed their enthusiasm for the partnership. "Nuclear Blast is proud to be in the trenches with NOLA legends Down as their partner in their long-overdue return to the metal world," the label stated. Anselmo echoed this sentiment, saying, "It’s good to sign with Nuclear Blast Records. It’s a good label home, and we’re ready to make some awesome recordings!"
Down's lineup currently includes Philip H. Anselmo on vocals, Pepper Keenan and Kirk Windstein on guitars, Jimmy Bower on drums, and Pat Bruders on bass. This powerhouse of seasoned musicians promises a riff-laden, unified, and undeniably Down experience.
Beyond the new album, Down is also scheduled to perform at the Milwaukee Metal Fest on May 16, 2025, at The Rave/Eagles Club in Milwaukee, WI. This performance provides fans with an opportunity to witness the band's signature sound live ahead of the highly anticipated album release.
The upcoming album is the first new material since their EPs Down IV Part I – The Purple EP (2012) and Down IV – Part Two (2014). Will this new partnership with Nuclear Blast usher in a new era for Down? What direction will their new music take? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
