American heavy metal band Down will unleash their long-awaited new studio album, Volume V, on November 20, through Nuclear Blast Records. Two writing sessions yielded the bulk of material on the album by upholding tradition dating back to Down II, The members retreated to Anselmo’s home studio and their de facto clubhouse, Nodferatu’s Lair. Songs originated on the spot as they jammed face-to-face. Throughout 2025, the music naturally took shape. Keenan and Windstein chose to simultaneously record guitar together.
We were all excited about this,” smiles Philip Anselmo. “There was sense of lightness in the air. Everyone’s attitude was positive. There was more focus than ever. It just felt fresh again. Each one of us was individually striving for something, and I believe we achieved what we wanted to achieve. The record is a journey. It’s classic Down, but it’s also unique.” In light of the album announcement, the band has shared the lead single, “Blood Oath,” which is anchored by an alternately hard-hitting and hummable riff that is culminating on a clarion call chorus. With a sly tip of the hat to their stomping grounds, it practically bleeds old gold, black, and white. “Anybody who’s from New Orleans is going to get a kick out of the references to the city,” grins Anselmo. “Musically, it’s got a big hook. It’s a DOWN song, but it takes a turn.”
Volume V Track List
1. The Myth
2. Merciful Fate
3. Turn Out The Light
4. The Message
5. Causeway Grief
6. Blood Oath
7. They Walk The Night
8. They Came From Dust
9. Ozz
10. Twice-Told Tales
Photo Credit: Ekaterina Gorbacheva
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