Down: The Heavy Metal Supergroup from New Orleans
Formed in 1991 in the heart of New Orleans, Louisiana, Down is a powerhouse American heavy metal supergroup. Known for blending the grit of sludge metal (a slow, heavy style of metal influenced by hardcore punk) with the soulful weight of Southern metal and stoner metal, the band consists of veterans from some of the most influential acts in the genre.
The current lineup features vocalist Phil Anselmo (Pantera, Superjoint Ritual), drummer Jimmy Bower (Crowbar, Eyehategod), guitarists Pepper Keenan (Corrosion of Conformity) and Kirk Windstein (Crowbar), and bassist Pat Bruders (Goatwhore, Crowbar). Together, they have created a sonic identity deeply rooted in their hometown's culture and a shared love for pioneers like Black Sabbath, Trouble, and Saint Vitus.
Key Facts
- Origin: New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.
- Active Years: 1991–present.
- Core Genres: Sludge, Southern, and Stoner Metal.
- Studio Albums: Three full-length LPs and two EPs.
- Notable Members: Phil Anselmo, Pepper Keenan, Jimmy Bower, Kirk Windstein, and Pat Bruders.
The Early Years and the Impact of NOLA
Down began as a project between longtime friends who wanted to explore their shared musical influences. In their early days, the band operated with a level of mystery; Phil Anselmo and Pepper Keenan would distribute demo tapes to fans, pretending they were merely listeners rather than the creators of the music. This underground buzz eventually caught the attention of Elektra Records.
On September 19, 1995, the band released their debut album, NOLA. The record was a critical and commercial success, debuting at number 55 on the Billboard 200. Critics praised tracks like "Stone the Crow" and "Temptations Wings," with AllMusic describing it as a landmark album for heavy metal. Following a brief 13-date tour, the band entered their first hiatus so members could return to their primary bands.
Evolution and Hiatuses: 1999–2010
The band returned in 2001 with a lineup change, as Rex Brown replaced original bassist Todd Strange. Their second album, Down II: A Bustle in Your Hedgerow (2002), was recorded in just 28 days at Phil Anselmo's barn, known as "Nödferatu's Lair." While it debuted at number 44 on the Billboard 200, it received more mixed reviews than their debut.
In 2006, Down reformed once more, signing with Warner Bros. Records. Their 2007 release, Down III: Over the Under, dealt with heavy personal and social themes, including the death of Dimebag Darrell, the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, and Anselmo's struggles with addiction and health. The album was a success, peaking at number 26 on the Billboard 200.
Between 2008 and 2010, the band continued to record new material and perform live, including a tour of the U.S. and Canada. During this period, they released the live album Diary of a Mad Band: Europe in the Year of VI via Roadrunner Records in 2010.
Lineup Shifts and the Down IV EPs
The early 2010s were marked by significant personnel changes. In 2011, Rex Brown departed the band and was replaced by Pat Bruders. Later, in 2013, founding guitarist Kirk Windstein left the group, with Bobby Landgraf stepping in to fill the role.
Rather than a full studio album, the band released their fourth project in two parts. Down IV – Part I arrived in September 2012, followed by Down IV – Part II in May 2014. These EPs allowed the band to release material in smaller, focused bursts.
Recent Activity and Future Releases
After a period of relative silence, Down announced a reunion for 2020 shows, including the Graspop Metal Meeting in Belgium. This reunion also saw the return of founding guitarist Kirk Windstein. In February 2026, the band celebrated Mardi Gras by releasing a cover of Dr. John's "Right Place Wrong Time."
As of August 2025, Kirk Windstein confirmed that the band is well past the halfway point of recording a new album, with drums, bass, and rhythm guitar parts already completed.
Discography Summary
| Release | Year | Type | US Billboard Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| NOLA | 1995 | LP | 55 |
| Down II: A Bustle in Your Hedgerow | 2002 | LP | 44 |
| Down III: Over the Under | 2007 | LP | 26 |
| Down IV – Part I | 2012 | EP | 35 |
| Down IV – Part II | 2014 | EP | 23 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the current members of Down?
The current lineup consists of Phil Anselmo (vocals), Pepper Keenan (guitar), Jimmy Bower (drums), Kirk Windstein (guitar), and Pat Bruders (bass).
What is the musical style of Down?
Down is primarily associated with sludge metal, Southern metal, and stoner metal, characterized by heavy, slow riffs and a Southern rock influence.
How many studio albums has the band released?
Down has released three full-length studio albums (NOLA, Down II, and Down III) and two extended plays (Down IV – Part I and Part II).
Is Kirk Windstein still in the band?
Yes, although he left the band in 2013, Kirk Windstein returned as a member in 2019.
When is the next Down album coming out?
While a specific date has not been announced, as of August 2025, the band has completed the drums, bass, and rhythm guitar portions of the new recording.