Down
Down: The Southern Metal Powerhouse
Emerging from the depths of New Orleans, Down surged onto the heavy metal scene in 1991, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. The band's dark, brooding sound, infused with elements of doom and sludge, resonated with audiences worldwide.
Early Years and Challenges
Upon their inception, Down faced adversity from critics who dismissed their music as "too slow and depressing." Undeterred, the band persevered and released their debut album "NOLA" in 1995. Despite critical acclaim, the album's commercial success was limited.
Rise to Prominence
With their sophomore album "Down II: A Bustle in Your Hedgerow" in 1999, Down experienced a surge in popularity. The album's lead single, "Stone the Crow," became an instant classic and cemented the band's status as a force to be reckoned with.
Controversies and Fractures
Down's success was not without its turbulence. Internal conflicts and personal struggles plagued the band throughout their career. In 2006, vocalist Phil Anselmo and bassist Rex Brown departed, leaving the future of the band in jeopardy.
Reunion and Renewal
After a five-year hiatus, Down reunited in 2011. They released their fourth album, "Down IV – Part I – The Purple EP," followed by "Down IV – Part II" in 2014. These albums showcased the band's enduring power and their ability to evolve while remaining true to their signature sound.
Discography
* NOLA (1995)
* Down II: A Bustle in Your Hedgerow (1999)
* Down III: Over the Under (2002)
* Down IV – Part I – The Purple EP (2011)
* Down IV – Part II (2014)
Members
Current
* Kirk Windstein (guitar, vocals)
* Pepper Keenan (guitar, vocals)
* Bobby Landgraf (drums)
* Pat Bruders (bass)
Former
* Phil Anselmo (vocals)
* Rex Brown (bass)
* Jimmy Bower (drums)
Legacy
Down's influence on the metal scene is undeniable. Their dark and atmospheric sound has inspired countless bands and set the bar for sludge and doom metal. Despite the challenges and controversies they have faced, Down remains one of the most respected and enduring forces in heavy metal.
Emerging from the depths of New Orleans, Down surged onto the heavy metal scene in 1991, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. The band's dark, brooding sound, infused with elements of doom and sludge, resonated with audiences worldwide.
Early Years and Challenges
Upon their inception, Down faced adversity from critics who dismissed their music as "too slow and depressing." Undeterred, the band persevered and released their debut album "NOLA" in 1995. Despite critical acclaim, the album's commercial success was limited.
Rise to Prominence
With their sophomore album "Down II: A Bustle in Your Hedgerow" in 1999, Down experienced a surge in popularity. The album's lead single, "Stone the Crow," became an instant classic and cemented the band's status as a force to be reckoned with.
Controversies and Fractures
Down's success was not without its turbulence. Internal conflicts and personal struggles plagued the band throughout their career. In 2006, vocalist Phil Anselmo and bassist Rex Brown departed, leaving the future of the band in jeopardy.
Reunion and Renewal
After a five-year hiatus, Down reunited in 2011. They released their fourth album, "Down IV – Part I – The Purple EP," followed by "Down IV – Part II" in 2014. These albums showcased the band's enduring power and their ability to evolve while remaining true to their signature sound.
Discography
* NOLA (1995)
* Down II: A Bustle in Your Hedgerow (1999)
* Down III: Over the Under (2002)
* Down IV – Part I – The Purple EP (2011)
* Down IV – Part II (2014)
Members
Current
* Kirk Windstein (guitar, vocals)
* Pepper Keenan (guitar, vocals)
* Bobby Landgraf (drums)
* Pat Bruders (bass)
Former
* Phil Anselmo (vocals)
* Rex Brown (bass)
* Jimmy Bower (drums)
Legacy
Down's influence on the metal scene is undeniable. Their dark and atmospheric sound has inspired countless bands and set the bar for sludge and doom metal. Despite the challenges and controversies they have faced, Down remains one of the most respected and enduring forces in heavy metal.