PANTERA LIVE!! | WALNUT CREEK
Pantera Delivers a Powerful Tribute at Walnut Creek in Raleigh
Pantera took the stage at Walnut Creek in Raleigh and delivered an unforgettable performance that was equal parts nostalgic and electrifying. The legendary heavy metal band, originally formed in 1981 by brothers Dimebag Darrell and Vinnie Paul, truly found its iconic sound in 1986 with the arrival of frontman Phil Anselmo. Over the years, Pantera became a cornerstone of the metal scene, selling over 20 million records worldwide and dominating the genre throughout the '90s.
Despite their success, internal tensions led to the band’s breakup in 2003, with each member pursuing separate musical projects. Hopes for a reunion of the original lineup were tragically dashed when guitarist Dimebag Darrell was shot and killed on stage in 2004 by a mentally ill fan—a loss that devastated the metal community. The heartbreak continued in 2018 when drummer Vinnie Paul passed away from heart failure.
In early 2022, fans were stunned and excited to learn that Phil Anselmo and original bassist Rex Brown would reunite for a Pantera tour. While the absence of the founding brothers is deeply felt, Anselmo and Brown have approached this tour with reverence and authenticity. Their performance is not just a concert—it’s a tribute.
Throughout the show, heartfelt references to Dimebag and Vinnie are woven into the experience, with images and videos of the brothers playing in the background. Anselmo speaks candidly about their loss, turning the performance into a living memorial that honors their legacy. The result is a cathartic celebration of Pantera’s enduring impact and the lives of two musicians who helped shape the sound of heavy metal.
