Down guitarist Kirk Windstein has confirmed that the band's long-awaited new studio album is slated for release in 2026, potentially as early as September. The update comes amid scheduling considerations with labelmate Corrosion of Conformity's upcoming record. This will mark Down's first full-length album in nearly two decades.
In a recent interview with 'Reckless' Rexx Ruger of the Pod Scum podcast, Down guitarist Kirk Windstein provided the most detailed timeline yet for the supergroup's next album. He stated that new music is expected in 2026, with a possible fall release window. 'Yes. Later than sooner,' Windstein said. 'But I don't really see why it can't get out, say, by September—around September-ish.'
The delay until later in the year stems from Nuclear Blast Records' packed schedule. Both Down and Corrosion of Conformity, led by Down's Pepper Keenan, are signed to the label. Windstein explained, '[Corrosion Of Conformity] have an amazing new record coming out April 2nd. So we can't put Down out too close to that… C.O.C. needs to come out and let everybody get blown away for a good bit. And when the water settles, we give 'em a double whammy and throw out the Down.' This approach aims to avoid overlapping promotions for the two anticipated releases.
Down's last full-length album was Down III: Over the Under in 2007, followed by Down IV – Part II in 2014 and additional EPs. The band signed with Nuclear Blast in April 2025, calling the partnership 'long overdue.' Frontman Phil Anselmo remarked, 'It's good to sign with Nuclear Blast Records. It's a good label home and we're ready to make some awesome recordings!' Pepper Keenan added, 'Having already been a part of the Nuclear Blast family with Corrosion of Conformity, it is an honor and a privilege to be here as well with my brothers in Down.' Drummer Jimmy Bower noted, 'Nuclear Blast is a great label that put out some excellent records. It's an honor to have them work our jams!'
Windstein described the new material as sounding 'like Down,' emphasizing an 'old-school' vibe. 'It sounds refreshing because we haven't done it in so long,' he said earlier this year. 'We're not trying to make things too complex. We just got back in a room and did it like we did from the beginning.' Fans can look forward to familiar heavy metal roots from the New Orleans-based group.