Unbroken: A Tribute to Dimebag and the Latest Pantera Tour
Pantera is on tour with an unparalleled level of talent: Zakk Wylde (yes, that Zakk), Charlie Benante (Anthrax), Rex Brown, and of course Phil Anselmo.
Pantera 2023 Tour
As the world continues to remember the powerhouse that was Pantera, the legendary band’s legacy lives on through their latest tour, featuring a lineup that pays homage to their roots while still blazing a trail of its own. The current tour contains an unparalleled level of talent with Zakk Wylde (yes, that Zakk), Charlie Benante (Anthrax), Rex Brown(The real OG, Rex Rocker), and of course Phil Anselmo (He doesn’t even need a parenthetical note). They are really reinventing the steel with this one by reviving a powerhouse group with original members and replacing it with the best possible talent.
Remembering Dimebag Darrell
Before we get into anything else being said. Dimebag Darrell, the iconic guitarist of Pantera, left an indelible mark on the world of heavy metal with his unparalleled talent and electrifying stage presence. Tragically, his life was cut short in 2004 during a tragic incident on stage. His loss was a devastating blow to the music industry, leaving a void that could never truly be filled. Dimebag Darrell was, without a doubt, one in a million—a charismatic performer, a virtuoso guitarist, and a beloved figure who continues to inspire countless musicians.
While Dimebag can never be replaced, or even fully emulated. We do have the right man for the job
The Torchbearer of Dimebag’s Legacy
In the face of the irreplaceable, the current tour found a torchbearer in Zakk Wylde, a guitarist whose own prowess and artistry could only be rivaled by the late Dimebag Darrell. Zakk Wylde, known for his extraordinary work with artists like Ozzy Osbourne, brought his own unique flair while respectfully channeling the spirit of Dimebag. His presence on stage is a fitting testament to the enduring impact of Dimebag Darrell’s style and influence.
Zakk Wylde’s journey as a guitarist is marked by his exceptional ability to step into the shoes of legendary musicians and make those shoes his own. When he first joined forces with Ozzy Osbourne, he faced the monumental task of following in the footsteps of the late Randy Rhoads, a guitar virtuoso whose influence in the rock and metal world was profound. Rhoads had left an indelible mark on Ozzy’s music during his time with the band. However, Zakk Wylde’s undeniable talent, larger-than-life personality, and powerful stage presence quickly set him apart. His tenure with Ozzy not only showcased his impressive technical skills but also his capability to pay homage to the past while carving out a unique identity as a guitarist. This experience undoubtedly prepared him to take on the responsibility of honoring Dimebag Darrell’s legacy while fronting the latest Pantera tour lineup.
A Continuation of Pantera’s Legacy
The new tour lineup of Zakk Wylde, Charlie Benante, Rex Brown, and Phil Anselmo keeps the heart of Pantera’s music beating strong. While paying homage to the original members and the untamed energy they exuded, this lineup also brings their own interpretations and experiences, creating a harmonious blend of nostalgia and contemporary edge. It’s an affirmation that Pantera’s legacy is unbreakable and can continue to thrive even in new hands.
Pantera’s Storied History and Impact:
Emerging in the 1980s, Pantera embarked on a journey that would change the landscape of heavy metal forever. With the release of albums like “Cowboys from Hell,” “Vulgar Display of Power,” and “Far Beyond Driven,” Pantera’s music channeled raw aggression, social commentary, and unadulterated emotion. Their contribution to the groove metal subgenre solidified their place in the pantheon of rock legends. Their fearless approach to music set a precedent for subsequent generations of musicians, inviting them to embrace their individuality and push the boundaries of their art.
Lamb of God
Sharing the stage with Pantera’s latest tour lineup is none other than Lamb of God, a band whose sound is unmistakably influenced by the thunderous legacy of Pantera. Hailing from the realms of modern metal, Lamb of God has emerged as a powerhouse in their own right, drawing inspiration from Pantera’s fierce intensity and unapologetic approach to music. With their groove-laden riffs, potent lyrics, and visceral live performances, Lamb of God channels the spirit of Pantera.
Dates & Who
Panter will be of course touring with LoG and will have a variety of openers at various dates and venues.
The following dates can be viewed at Pantera’s Official Tour Site
And have been sorted by opener off a Metal Injection Article
w/ S.N.A.F.U.
07/28 Burgettstown, PA – The Pavilion at Star Lake
07/29 Noblesville, IN – Ruoff Music Center
07/31 Milwaukee, WI – American Family Insurance Amphitheater (no Lamb of God)
w/ Child Bite
08/02 Camden, NJ – Freedom Mortgage Pavilion
08/05 Hershey, PA – Hersheypark Stadium
08/06 Scranton, PA – The Pavilion at Montage Mountain
08/08 Syracuse, NY – St. Joseph’s Health Amphitheater at Lakeview
08/09 Darien Center, NY – Darien Lake Amphitheater
08/12 Toronto, ON – Budweiser Stage
w/ Flesh Hoarder
08/15 Rogers, AR – Walmart AMP
08/17 Woodlands, TX – The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
08/20 Austin, TX – Germania Insurance Amphitheater
w/ Spirit In The Room
08/23 Denver, CO – Ball Arena
08/26 Chula Vista, CA – North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre
08/29 Salt Lake City, UT – USANA Amphitheatre
08/31 Albuquerque, NM – Isleta Amphitheater
w/ King Parrot
09/07 Bangor, ME – Maine Savings Amphitheater
09/08 Gilford, NH – Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion
09/12 Alpharetta, GA – Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
09/14 Virginia Beach, VA – Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach
09/15 Bristow, VA – Jiffy Lube Live
In Conclusion
As the latest tour unfolds, it’s clear that Pantera’s flame continues to burn brightly. This is more than a tribute; it’s a celebration of a band that defied convention and left an everlasting impact. While Dimebag Darrell’s absence is deeply felt, Zakk Wylde and the new lineup keep his spirit alive, ensuring that his guitar riffs and stage presence will resonate through the ages. Pantera lives on, as a testament to the power of music to transcend time and connect us all.
As we take this look at Pantera’s latest tour, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for having witnessed the band’s brilliance back in the late 90s, when their penultimate lineup reigned supreme. Those memories are etched in time, a testament to the unparalleled energy and passion that Pantera brought to the stage. And now, as I prepare to experience them once again with the current lineup that pays tribute to their history while forging a new path, excitement courses through me. The opportunity to relive the legacy of Pantera, to be immersed in their timeless music, is a gift beyond measure. As we head into this tour, I am reminded to look back at Dimebag Darrell’s life not with sorrow, but with joy for all that he contributed to the scene. His impact is immeasurable, his spirit lives on in every riff and every roar. The legacy of Pantera endures, and I am privileged to be a part of its ongoing journey.
\m/ Dime, Kick God in the balls for me! You are with the Great Hawk now.