Zakk Wylde Adds New Punch To Pantera’s First Stateside Concert in 22 Years

Bayonne’s own Zakk Wylde—after adding immeasurably to Ozzy Osbourne and his own sterling solo stuff—has become the go-to guy in the newly reformed Pantera with former Anthrax drummer Charlie Benante keeping the beat, bassist Rex Brown holding down the bottom and vocalist Phil Anselmo spitting out his lyrics. The band’s new lineup caused controversy at first when many felt the deaths of the two beloved brothers—drummer Vinnie Paul, 54, from a 2018 heart attack, and lead guitarist Dimebag Darrell, 38, shockingly murdered onstage in 2004—could not be replaced. Yet shows in Mexico, Columbia, Chile, Brazil and Japan proved otherwise.

Then, on the night of May 6, in Panama City, Florida, Pantera unleashed its rage to a packed house at the Thunder Beach Motorcycle Rally. It was the first time they had performed in the United States since July 25, 2001 in Tacoma, Washington, 22 years ago. The 11-song set opened with “Mouth For War” before rampaging on with “I’m Broken/Demons Be Driven,” “A New Level,” “Walk,” “Cowboys From Hell,” “Strength Beyond Strength,” “Becoming/Throes Of Rejection,” “This Love,” “Yesterday Don’t Mean Shit,” “Suicide Note Part Two” and “Damnation/Hollow.”

After another Florida fest gig at “Welcome To Rockville” in Daytona Beach on May 20, they’re off to Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, Germany, Poland, Finland, Sweden, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Belgium, France, Holland, Norway, Portugal, Spain and Italy. In July, they’ll be back in the States in Wisconsin, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Indiana and Wisconsin. (Lamb Of God will open in selected states). Then comes August 2 when Zakk gets to finally perform in his home state as Pantera’s lead guitarist. MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford WILL ROCK. What a night that will be!