Down – the legendary band featuring vocalist Philip H. Anselmo, guitarists Pepper Keenan and Kirk Windstein, drummer Jimmy Bower, and bassist Pat Bruders – has signed to Nuclear Blast Records for their long-awaited new record, due out sometime in 2026. The new album follows Down‘s last release Down IV – Part Two, which was released in 2014. So yeah, it’s been a minute.
“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,” said Nuclear Blast in a statement. “In addition, we are excited to bring some of their key past catalog releases back into the spotlight, especially on the vinyl side. There are so many longtime Down fans at Nuclear Blast who are excited to be working with one of their all-time favorite bands. 2026 can’t come soon enough!”
“It’s good to sign with Nuclear Blast Records,” said Anselmo. “It’s a good label home and we’re ready to make some awesome recordings!”
Keenan added: “Having already been a part of the Nuclear Blast family with Corrosion Of Conformity, it is an honor and a privilege to be here as well with my brothers in Down. The team at Nuclear Blast is a well-oiled machine and you can definitely tell they love what they do. We are in the right place.”
In the meantime, Down will headline night one of this year’s edition of the Milwaukee Metal Fest. As for new music, Nuclear Blast only notes that more concrete news of new Down will be announced in the coming months. So y’know, get those rolling papers and bowls ready.
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