New Orleans' sludge and doom metal pioneers CROWBAR - led by vocalist/guitarist Kirk Windstein - have officially entered the studio to begin working on their tenth studio album. The new material will be the band's first since the release of Sever The Wicked Hand, that was released in 2010.

Windstein recently announced his departure from DOWN after spending more than 20 years as their lead riff-master. "After 22 wonderful years we are parting ways. They will always be my brothers and I wish the best to all of them. We have created some bad ass music together that we can all look back on and be proud of. All of our great times will never be forgotten."

With Windstein devoting 100% of his focus on Crowbar, he is assuring fans that the sky is the limit. He continues, "Crowbar is my heart and soul. The music is a part of me that I am extremely proud of. It's an amazing feeling to be putting all of my energy and focus into something that I created 25 years ago! We are extremely excited to record our 10th full length album and to bring the riffs to as many people as possible on tour. See you on the road!"

Crowbar have entered the OCD Recording Studio in their hometown of New Orleans with Duane Simoneaux taking on engineering duties. The legendary Zeuss has been tapped to mix the record. The band also welcomes new bassist Jeff Golden after the departure of Pat Bruders earlier this year. The band will be heading out on a handful of dates throughout Europe shortly before album release. Crowbar has also been confirmed for Roadburn Festival, Maryland Death Fest & Hellfest all happening in 2014.

Down's 2013 dates include:

November

29 - Houston, TX - Scout Bar
30 - Dallas, TX - Trees

December

1 - Austin, TX - Dirty Dog
2 - San Antonio, TX - Tequila Rock Room
3 - Fayetteville, AR - George's Majestic Lounge
4 - Oklahoma City, OK - The Chameleon Room
5 - Tyler, TX - Click's Billiards
6 - Shreveport, LA - Riverside Warehouse
7 - Broussard, LA - The Station
13 - Mobile, AL - The Alabama Music Box
14 - New Orleans, LA - Tipitina's