Down IV – Part I
Down · 2012
33 min · 6 tracks · sludge metal
A heavy, atmospheric blend of sludge and stoner metal, marked by gritty riffs and haunting vocals.
Top tracks — play these first
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Witchtripper — With its infectious groove and intense riffing, this track encapsulates Down's signature sound while showcasing their ability to craft memorable hooks.
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Open Coffins — This track combines haunting melodies with powerful lyrical themes, reflecting on mortality and loss, which resonates deeply within the Southern metal aesthetic.
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Misfortune Teller — At nearly ten minutes long, this song exemplifies Down's capacity for extended compositions that build atmosphere and tension, making it a standout piece in their catalog.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The EP showcases strong songwriting and production while maintaining a cohesive sound, though it doesn't redefine its genre.
What we noticed
- The first track opens with a slow, heavy riff that gradually builds intensity, setting a dark tone for the EP.
- Vocals alternate between melodic singing and harsh growls, creating a dynamic contrast throughout the tracks.
- Several songs feature extended instrumental sections that emphasize the atmospheric qualities of the music.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- heavy riffs for cathartic release
- short bursts of atmospheric intensity
- gritty soundscapes for late nights
- haunting vocals with immersive depth
Maybe skip if you
- prefer light, uplifting sounds
- seek immediate gratification
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on September 18, 2012, 'Down IV – Part I' is the first EP from Down in over a decade and marks a return to form following their 2002 album 'Down II'. This period reflects the band's evolution after lineup changes and years of side projects for its members, including Phil Anselmo's various collaborations.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Crowbar· Eyehategod· Pantera
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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The Curse Is a Lie
A pivotal moment occurs when the lyrics shift from external criticism to introspective reflection, challenging beliefs about fate and control.
This transition emphasizes the personal struggle against predetermined paths, showcasing a depth that enriches the thematic content of the album.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Levitation 5:00
- 2 Witchtripper 3:49
- 3 Open Coffins 5:44
- 4 The Curse Is a Lie 6:01
- 5 This Work Is Timeless 3:43
- 6 Misfortune Teller 9:05
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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