Bassist Rex Brown (DOWN, PANTERA) has nearly fully recuperated from his fight with pancreatitis.

Says Brown, "After two major surgeries to close out 2009, I have recovered from pancreatitis and am looking forward to getting back to work with Down."

Brown, and the rest of Down, have discussed reconvening in New Orleans sometime after the Super Bowl to begin work on a new album. With a release date yet to be announced, the new album will be the band's fourth studio offering.

Brown who is currently looking forward to a healthy and productive 2010 says, "I'd like to thank everyone for their support and well wishes during my illness and recovery."

As previously reported, Downfrontman Philip Anselmo (ex-Pantera) has reacted to the news that the New Orleans Saints will be making their first-ever appearance at Super Bowl XLIV against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, Feburary 7th at Sun Life Stadium in Miami.

"Unbelievable! We shocked the world! Congrats to our New Orleans Saints, the coaches, the staff, the general manager and the owners!!! Even before this season started, just looking at the roster, I had an insane feeling this year could be THE year! Everyone knows how powerful our offense is, but the defensive side of the ball is underrated!!! Look at the post-season stats!!!

This has been, and will continue to be a season of destiny... there's just too many parallels to count here, but it all adds up: we have arrived! The Mighty NO Saints have cut the heads off two legends (Warner and Farve), now it's time to decapitate the third; one of our own hometown kids, Payton Manning. BRING IT BROTHER!!!!! WE'RE GOING TO THE F-ING SUPER BOWL!!!!!!!!!!!

As for perfection in parallels, I can't think of any other words more suitable than...

ON MARCH THE SAINTS!!!!!!!!"

To commemorate this monumental achievement Down are offering a free download of 'On March The Saints' (the unofficial fight song for the Saints found on 2007's Down III: Over The Under).

Download it here.