On Wednesday, July 13, metal fans worldwide were either shocked or thrilled (or both at the same time) to find out about a Pantera 2023 reunion. Billboard dropped news claiming that Phil Anselmo and Rex Brown have signed with Artist Group International and will be touring together doing Pantera music.
Now, at this point, it’s still not certain whether this is billed as an actual Pantera reunion or more of a tribute kind of thing. What is certain is that Rex and Phil are doing it. For a whole day or two, fans speculated on who will join them. But now, a new report by Billboard reveals that some of the rumors were true. Zakk Wylde will be joining in on the guitar while Charlie Benante of Anthrax will be the drummer for this new tour.
As the report explains, “a source close to the group tells Billboard” that this has been confirmed. Previous to that, there have been some rumors flying around on various news outlets, although no solid sources have been cited.
Billboard article further adds that this lineup has gotten a “green light” from Dimebag Darrell’s and Vinnie Paul’s estates. As for Wylde, plenty of fans and musicians have brought him forward as a potential fill-in for Dimebag. However, Ozzy Osbourne guitarist and Black Label Society founder was never up for the idea. But if this report is true, then he’s definitely changed his mind on the matter.
Whatever may be the case, it seems that some of the fans weren’t super-happy about the whole idea. Various online sources reveal some mixed reactions to the announcement. The overall consensus, if you will, is that everyone’s fine with a tour but not with labeling it as a Pantera reunion. You can read more about that here.
So far, other details about the tour are unknown. Zakk has a tour planned with Ozzy in May and June next year. In case Zakk is really involved (most likely that’s the case), then the tour won’t be happening then. This is a developing story, however, so we’ll keep you updated on the matter.
Photo: MorganaPhotolive (Black Label Society (26643606944)), Ingo Hoffmann (Charlie Benante), Llann Wé² (W0829-Hellfest2013 Down PhilAnselmo 69245), Rexzone111 (Rex Brown)
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