In a recent conversation with Heavy, Zakk Wylde, the guitarist for Pantera, discussed the potential for new music from the band. Addressing the topic of playing the music written by the late Dimebag Darrell, Wylde touched upon the possibility of creating new Pantera tracks, though he noted it wasn’t something the band was currently considering. He explained:
“When that time comes, we’ll think about it. Right now, our focus is entirely on what we’re currently doing, and the thought of new music hasn’t really crossed our minds.”
Although the idea of new music hasn’t been a priority, Wylde hasn’t completely dismissed the idea. He’s open to making new music, provided it meets a specific criterion. In a prior discussion, Wylde clarified his stance, stating:
“Absolutely, I’d be interested in creating new music. However, if it were new material, it wouldn’t exactly be Pantera, unless it involved working on previously unfinished songs the original members had written. If we were to create entirely new songs, it would likely be under a different name.”
Charlie Benante, like Wylde, has expressed caution about the idea of releasing new music under the Pantera banner, particularly due to the expectations of fans and the legacy of Dimebag Darrell and Vinnie Paul. In a 2022 interview, Benante shared his thoughts on the delicate balance between innovation and respect for the past, saying:
“If the creative energy is there and we start producing great music, who knows what the future could hold? I have plenty of musical ideas. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. The idea is promising, but fan reactions to new music without Dimebag and Vinnie are a concern. Our first step is to prove we can deliver live. I’m always looking forward, though, open to where this journey might take us.”
