New Orleans doom/sludge metal supergroup Down have announced their fourth full-length album, Volume V, due for release on 20th November via Nuclear Blast Records. The band shared the lead single "Blood Oath" alongside the announcement, marking their first major new music since returning guitarist Kirk Weinstein rejoined the line-up. The release matters as a notable return for a band that, despite huge critical and commercial standing, has released only three albums and two EPs across its 35-year history.

Frontman Philip Anselmo described the recording process as energised and focused, while Weinstein said the sessions recaptured the spirit of the band's 1995 debut NOLA. The ten-track record includes "Merciful Fate", featuring King Diamond and his wife Livia Zita, and "Ozz", a tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne. Down are currently touring North America with Helmet and Spirit in the Room, and are also set to appear at Zakk Wylde's Berzerkus festival.