About
If you've ever shaved the sides and back of your head and left the top long, you probably know what Pantera's about. Driven by the Van Halen-influenced wailing and Metallica-like sledgehammer riffs of "Dimebag" Darrell, Pantera forged their own niche in the early '80s, barreling over lighter Metal fare with a fast, heavy, gut-vibrating energy. Philip Anselmo's deep growls and stratospheric screams may have had their roots in the group's original incarnation as a hair metal band, but they perfectly complement Pantera's speed-thrash and moody ballads. Double-bass drumming by Vinnie Paul and an in-your-face Texas attitude complete the formula for one of Metal's ballsiest, most ear-demolishing bands.
- Jessy Terry
