Two years after the first instalment of the four-part EP series, Down IV, NOLA sludge legends Down deliver Part II. Like Part I: The Purple EP, the new six-song release is over 30 minutes long and is filled with the band's iconic doom-ridden, groovy Southern sludge. "Steeple" opens the EP with the heavy, epic riffs that Down are known for, as well as Phil Anselmo's deep, soul-crushing vocals. The quicker-paced headbangers "We Knew Him Well" and "Hogshead/Dogshead" follow with raw, old-school riffs that highlight the band's Black Sabbath and Saint Vitus influences while remaining anchored to Down's brand of Southern flair.
At over eight minutes, highlight "Conjure" slows things back down to a groove-laden dirge. Anselmo's croon captivates before kicking the pace up for a grand finish that seamlessly leads into the guitar-driven "Sufferer's Years," which features some of guitarist Pepper Keenan's best work. Nine-minute closer "Bacchanalia" starts off as a classic mid-paced groovy Down track filled with intense riffs before finishing with clean melodies around the six-and-a-half minute mark. Plucking acoustic guitar work closes the EP with the band's "Where I'm Going"-style approach and melancholic atmosphere. From powerful riffs to heartbreaking melodies, Down IV – Part II is yet another example of Down's flawless work.
(Down Records/ADA Music)At over eight minutes, highlight "Conjure" slows things back down to a groove-laden dirge. Anselmo's croon captivates before kicking the pace up for a grand finish that seamlessly leads into the guitar-driven "Sufferer's Years," which features some of guitarist Pepper Keenan's best work. Nine-minute closer "Bacchanalia" starts off as a classic mid-paced groovy Down track filled with intense riffs before finishing with clean melodies around the six-and-a-half minute mark. Plucking acoustic guitar work closes the EP with the band's "Where I'm Going"-style approach and melancholic atmosphere. From powerful riffs to heartbreaking melodies, Down IV – Part II is yet another example of Down's flawless work.