I just witnessed the most epic thing ever – a fan-filmed video of DOWN’s entire August 30 concert at The Fillmore in Silver Spring, Maryland has been uploaded to YouTube, and I’m still trying to process the sheer awesomeness of it all. I mean, who needs personal relationships or a social life when you can watch a 2-hour long video of a heavy metal concert? 🤷♂️
The setlist for the show was a masterclass in heavy metal, featuring classics like “Blood Oath”, “Lysergik Funeral Procession”, and “Stone The Crow”. And let’s not forget the encore, which included “Eyes Of The South” and “Bury Me In Smoke”. I’m pretty sure I heard the crowd chanting “ONE MORE SONG!” but I’m also pretty sure they were just being polite and didn’t want to leave the venue.
The Band’s History and Legacy
DOWN is more than just a band – it’s a brotherhood rooted in childhood friendships that have endured for decades. It’s an homage to the city of New Orleans, Louisiana, and its music is meant for anybody who has ever headbanged, played air guitar, or worn a weathered tour t-shirt like armor. With over three decades of experience, the quintet – Philip H. Anselmo, Pepper Keenan, Kirk Windstein, Jimmy Bower, and Pat Bruders – have built a legacy like no other.
But let’s get real, who needs a social life when you have a band like DOWN? I mean, these guys have been making music together for over 30 years, and it shows. They’ve got a chemistry that’s hard to find in most bands, and it’s clear that they’re having the time of their lives on stage.
The Upcoming Album and Tour
This autumn, DOWN begins another chapter with the release of their long-awaited new studio album, “Volume V”, which will arrive on November 20 via Nuclear Blast Records. The album features heavy hitters like “The Myth” and “Merciful Fate”, which features a vocal duel between Anselmo and King Diamond. Because what’s a metal album without a little bit of drama and competition, right?
“We were all excited about this,” says Anselmo, trying to contain his enthusiasm. “There was a sense of lightness in the air. Everyone’s attitude was positive. There was more focus than ever. It just felt fresh again.” Yeah, because nothing says “fresh” like a bunch of middle-aged men playing heavy metal music.
The band is currently in the middle of their North American headlining tour with support provided by HELMET and SPIRIT IN THE ROOM. Because who doesn’t love a good undercard? The “Strap It Down” tour commenced in Atlanta, Georgia on August 15 and will close in Shakopee, Minnesota on September 4 with a special performance as direct support to SLAYER.
In October, DOWN will perform at both Aftershock and Sick New World Texas, because one festival just isn’t enough. And in December, the band will headline day two of this year’s edition of the Decibel magazine Metal & Beer Fest Denver, marking their first Denver appearance in over twelve years.
So if you haven’t already, go watch the fan-filmed video of their concert and try to experience the magic for yourself. But don’t say I didn’t warn you – it’s a wild ride. 🤪
Chord F. Discord, the Beethoven of Buffoonery, is a self-taught expert in music who once claimed he could “play the kazoo in four languages.”
Born in Crescendo, Indiana, Chord’s first brush with fame came when he accidentally entered a yodeling contest thinking it was a pie-eating competition—and won both categories.
Chord F. Discord: proving that laughter, much like a poorly tuned ukulele, is truly universal.
