Oklahoma-based alternative rock band Downward unveiled a surprise LP, Downward (LP2). It’s available to stream on all platforms and can be purchased through New Morality Zine.
In their sophomore self-titled album, Downward (LP2), the band has fully stepped beyond the confines of any singular scene, delivering a rock record that feels undeniably modern. Having refined their signature balance of airy melancholy and crushing weight, LP2 sees Downward embracing a newfound sense of expansiveness. While the influence of post-hardcore and alternative remains, this album is a bold statement of evolution—one that showcases a band no longer bound by expectations. It carries a sonic clarity that enhances its depth, making each moment resonate with intention.
Standouts on the album include the self-reflecting track “Perfect Food,” which blends abstract imagery with emotional vulnerability. The song speaks to a complex relationship where connection and distance intertwine, exploring the push and pull of desire and resistance.
“‘Perfect Food’ is one of the last couple of songs we wrote for the album, and in the grand scheme of the record, it might be the most ‘business as usual’ song for us. In the back of my head I knew we needed a song like this in the tracklist somewhere,” shares guitarist and vocalist of Downward, Drew Richardson. “We played through it a couple of times, and I just got hit with this “Oh yeah, I’m definitely in the right band” feeling. It really changed my mood and gave me a bit of confidence when we went in to record.”
Kendal Osborne and the band recorded the new album, and they tapped into collaborators including Dave Collis and Sean Hallock from Slow Mass (IL). LP2 was mixed and mastered by Corey Coffman from Gleemer (CO). It carries a sonic clarity that enhances its depth, making each moment resonate with intention, boasting a total of ten tracks.
Downward (LP2) Track List:
- Request Made
- Wind Up
- Absolute Value
- Line
- Darkscreen
- Ibex
- Out of Luck
- Perfect Food
- The Waltz
- Rival
Limited vinyl variants of the album are also available now at select record stores including:
Limited To One (New York City, NY)
Meteor Gem (Chicago, IL)
Lunchbox Record (Charlotte, NC)
Gneiss Sounds (Houston, TX)
Liliput Records (Milwaukee, WI)
Nile Records (Mesa, AZ)
Downward’s first self-titled debut LP came out in 2018, laying the foundation for their evolving sound—balancing ethereal melodies with crushing heaviness. They followed up in May 2020 with 2 Songs, a two-track 7″ that further explored the interplay between light and heavy sonic textures. Their 2022 EP, The Brass Tax, marked a significant step forward. Incorporating bold sonic experimentation, the EP saw the band incorporating near pop-like sensibilities while maintaining their signature weight and atmosphere. In 2023, Downward teamed up with Texas-based band Trauma Ray for the release of Split, further expanding their sound while moving beyond their slowcore influences.
Downward’s dedication to their craft has cultivated a devoted following, with multiple vinyl pressings selling out and thousands of listeners engaging with their music online. Their commitment to authenticity and quality continues to set them apart, solidifying their place as one of the most compelling forces in modern alternative music.
The band is currently out on tour this month to support Movements with other bands on the scene, including Citizen and Scowl. They kicked things off in Tempe, Arizona on March 1st and are hitting cities through April such as Dallas, Nashville, Atlanta, Brooklyn, Boston, and more. They will close out the tour in Los Angeles on April 6th. Tickets are available to purchase now through the LINK HERE
