Downer

Drawing from the intense traits of hardcore, Downer crafts pioneering material that explores fresh ideas across alternative metal. The group began taking shape during the mid-'90s in Orange County, yet its roots trace to the mid-'80s, when guitarist Aaron Silberman and vocalist J. Scott first crossed paths. After performing in assorted acts and gaining experience at the heart of the music business, the pair chose to form their own lineup. Once bassist Jed Hathaway and drummer John Dahlgren joined, Downer coalesced and swiftly developed its distinctive approach. The outfit released its debut recording, the EP Pinman, via Ammunition Records in 1995. Two years afterward, the album Wrestling With Jesus arrived, extending the band's bold sonic explorations to their fullest. Around the same period, Downer embarked on its first major tour, sharing bills with Ignite and Earth Crisis. In the months that followed, the musicians appeared alongside Korn, the Deftones, and Sublime. The band then secured its initial major contract with Roadrunner while readying material for a new studio effort. With Bob Marlette—previously at the helm for Saliva and Strife—handling production, the Californians delivered their second full-length, the self-titled Downer, to stores in 2001.