Down Members, Gear & Sound
US metal supergroup
Members
Select a Down band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Down is a powerhouse heavy metal supergroup hailing from New Orleans, Louisiana. Formed in the mid-1990s, the band is comprised of prominent figures from the metal scene: Phil Anselmo (vocals) from Pantera, Pepper Keenan (guitar) from Corrosion of Conformity, Kirk Windstein (guitar) and Todd Strange (bass) from Crowbar, and Jimmy Bower (drums). Known for their potent mix of sludge, southern, and groove metal, Down channels the gritty, heavy essence of their roots, drawing inspiration from classic rock titans like Black Sabbath. Over the years, the lineup has seen changes, with Rex Brown stepping in on bass, but the core of their sound remains a relentless, riff-driven force.
How to Sound Like Down
To emulate Down's formidable sound, one should lean into the heavy, groove-laden riffs and the thick, sludgy tones that permeate their music. The band's guitar work is characterized by a dirty, overdriven texture, often achieved using guitars like the Gibson Firebird Studio wielded by Pepper Keenan, combined with powerful amplifier setups such as the Ampeg SS-150H. The bass provides a deep, rumbling foundation, frequently utilizing gear like the Music Man Stingray and Ampeg SVT-VR for a rich, driving low end. Drums in Down's music are thunderous and commanding, propelling the music forward with a steady, unyielding force that complements the band's raw energy and southern metal roots.
Discography
Get the Down Sound
Want to sound like Down? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.
