In a recent interview with Guitar Interactive Magazine, Zakk Wylde discussed the possibility of new Pantera music. The project would feature unreleased riff recordings from late guitarist Dimebag Darrell Abbott, currently held by Rita Haney, Dimebag’s longtime girlfriend.
“Well, the fellows [Philip and Rex] were talking about doing something, and Rita [Haney, longtime girlfriend of late Pantera guitarist ‘Dimebag’ Darrell Abbott] has tons of cassette recordings of Dime writing riffs and stuff like that,” Wylde revealed.
“So, I guess if it would be like something like, let’s say if it’s Eric Clapton playing with [Jimi Hendrix Experience drummer] Mitch [Mitchell] and [bassist] Noel [Redding], ’cause if Eric went out and did what we’re doing right now, did a Jimi Hendrix celebration, and Mitch and Noel asked Eric Clapton to come out ’cause he was buddies with Jimi and they were just, like, ‘Would you go out and sing and play Jimi’s stuff?'” he continued.
“And Eric does it, and then after that, it’s just, like, ‘We’ve got these recordings [that] Jimi never finished, a song called ‘Purple Haze’ and a song called ‘The Wind Cries Mary’ and this song called ‘Little Wing’ or whatever,’ and we’ll properly record ’em [with Eric], because if they were just Jimi just jamming on a tape recorder, just him playing ’em,” Wylde added.
“If they were, obviously, Dime’s original riffs and ideas, yeah, of course. But Pantera is those four guys. You’re gonna call it the Jimi Hendrix band and you’ve got Eric playing and singing. It’s just Mitch and Noel. If it’s Jimi’s original ideas, and they’re just gonna properly record ’em, take it from the little tape recorder from a cassette, yeah, that would be cool. ‘Cause if it was something Dime wrote and him and Vinnie were working on or whatever..,” he shared.
The potential project marks a significant development in Pantera’s legacy. It follows the band’s successful reunion tours and their ongoing efforts to preserve Dimebag’s musical heritage.
Dimebag’s Musical Legacy
Metal historians at Smells Like Infinite Sadness highlight Dimebag Darrell’s distinctive guitar tone and style as foundational elements of modern metal. His riffs in songs like ‘Walk’ and ‘Cowboys From Hell’ remain influential touchstones for guitarists worldwide.
His technical prowess and innovative approach continue to inspire new generations of musicians. This enduring influence has secured his position as one of metal’s most revered figures.
Previously Unreleased Material
Pantera’s official website documents previous releases of Dimebag’s unreleased work. One notable example is ‘Whiskey Road,’ a track featuring Dimebag on vocals and all instruments.
This successful handling of archived material demonstrates the band’s experience with posthumous releases. They have consistently maintained artistic integrity throughout this process.
Current Band Dynamic
The current incarnation of Pantera, with Zakk Wylde on guitar, maintains a deep commitment to honoring the band’s legacy. They approach new developments with careful consideration for preserving the authentic Pantera sound.
The use of Dimebag’s original riffs could create a significant milestone in the band’s history. This approach would connect their classic era to their current lineup through Dimebag’s previously unheard contributions.
