DOWN Releases 'Volume V' After 12-Year Hiatus

DOWN has announced the release of 'Volume V', its first new studio album in twelve years, set for November 20 via Nuclear Blast Records. The album follows 'Down IV - Part II' and marks a significant return for the band after a long hiatus. The record was produced by Eddie Mapp and DOWN, mixed by Dave Fortman, and mastered by Maor Appelbaum at Maor Appelbaum Mastering in California.

The album features a guest appearance by King Diamond on the track 'Merciful Fate'. Philip H. Anselmo revealed the collaboration began during demo sessions when he sang the title phrase, which inspired the song's thematic focus on a peaceful death. After the band discussed the idea, they reached out to King Diamond, who agreed to perform. Anselmo described the result as 'amazing', noting that King Diamond's wife, Liv, also contributed harmonized vocals.

DOWN will celebrate the release with a record release show at Lakefront Arena in New Orleans on November 20 as part of 'The Great NOLA Trendkill!' festival. The event, presented by Housecore Horror, Housecore Records and Live Nation, also features a landmark PANTERA performance marking the band's first show in New Orleans in 30 years. Additional acts include BLACK LABEL SOCIETY, CORROSION OF CONFORMITY, POWER TRIP, CROWBAR, EYEHATEGOD, RĀDE HERAKLEION and PIG DESTROYER.

The band will also headline day two of the Decibel Magazine Metal & Beer Fest in Denver on December 5, marking their first appearance in the city in over twelve years. DOWN recently concluded the 'Strap It Down' North American tour, including a performance as direct support to SLAYER in Shakopee, Minnesota, and played at Aftershock and Sick New World festivals.