Zakk Wylde discussed Pantera’s influential role in extreme metal on The Magnificent Others with Billy Corgan.
He explored the elements that make bands exceptional by comparing Pantera to other legendary acts. His focus centered on musical excellence beyond heaviness.
“Well, what I always say what separated Black Sabbath from everything, it’s not because it’s heavy. It’s because it’s great songs. So with our Pantera, as far as I’m concerned, I always say Pantera in is in their genre of extreme metal, they are the gold standard of where everything…” Wylde stated.
He expanded his comparison to other iconic bands: “Just like how Sabbath and [Led] Zeppelin, The [Rolling] Stones, The Beatles are the gold standard. So if it’s a southern rock band, just The Allman Brothers and [Lynyrd] Skynyrd are the gold standard of that style of music. So, with extreme metal, they’re all measured by what Pantera set.”
Wylde’s respect for Pantera’s legacy holds special significance due to his current role with the band.
Loudwire revealed that Wylde joined Pantera’s 2023 tour lineup. He performs alongside Philip Anselmo on vocals, Rex Brown on bass, and Charlie Benante on drums. This new formation pays tribute to the band’s influence and honors original members Dimebag Darrell and Vinnie Paul.
The guitarist maintains a careful approach to preserving Pantera’s musical heritage. Blabbermouth noted his openness to recording new music with the current lineup. However, he stressed that such material would require release under a different name to respect the original legacy.
In coverage by Ultimate Metal, Wylde described feeling Dimebag’s presence during performances. He credited this spiritual connection as a driving force behind the tour’s success and Pantera’s ongoing musical journey.
The current tour demonstrates Pantera’s enduring impact on metal music. Wylde and his bandmates continue to celebrate the groundbreaking sound that established Pantera as extreme metal’s benchmark.
