Photos by Stan Martin – Pantera was an American heavy metal band formed in Arlington, Texas in 1981. The band originally consisted of vocalist Terry Glaze, guitarist Diamond Darrell (later known as Dimebag Darrell), his brother Vinnie Paul on drums, and bassist Rex Brown.
Initially, Pantera played glam metal, adopting a style similar to bands like Van Halen and Kiss. However, in the late 1980s, the band underwent a significant musical shift. With the recruitment of vocalist Phil Anselmo, their sound evolved into a more aggressive, thrash and groove metal sound that became their signature style.
The release of their fifth studio album, “Cowboys from Hell” in 1990, marked Pantera’s breakthrough, garnering them attention within the heavy metal community. It was followed by critically acclaimed albums like “Vulgar Display of Power” (1992) and “Far Beyond Driven” (1994), which solidified their status as one of the leading heavy metal bands of the 1990s.
Despite their success, internal tensions eventually caused the band to disband in 2003. Tragically, Dimebag Darrell was shot and killed while performing with his new band, Damageplan, in 2004.
Throughout their career, Pantera sold over 60 million records worldwide and influenced countless bands with their heavy, aggressive sound. They are regarded as one of the most influential metal bands of all time.
LAMB OF GOD
