Interview by Kris Peters
Photo credit Jeffrey Graham Photography
Knotfest Australia 2024 is less than a week away, and despite boasting bands of the calibre of Lamb Of God, Disturbed, Halestorm, Skindred and more, the band on everyone’s lips is Pantera.
After getting back together last year for some live shows - with Zakk Wylde filling guitarist duties and Charlie Benante on the drums – the new-look version of Pantera has come under fire from certain quarters, with others praising the band for bringing their music to a new generation.
It is a debate that has merits on both sides, but at the end of the day it should be accepted for what it is. A celebration of a band and their history.
HEAVY caught up with Zakk Wylde for one of Pantera’s few interviews before Knotfest.
We discussed the line-up, nerves before the first show, and the personal significance of playing music written by Dimebag Darrell, as well as the possibility of new music, his involvement in the Ride for Dime event, and Zakk’s excitement for the upcoming Berzerkus festival plus his work with Black Label Society, the status of their upcoming album, and his creative process for writing new material. We also addressed criticism of the Pantera reunion and more.
“We just got done wrapping up the last run of the headlining shows right around near Madison Square Garden, which was pretty amazing,” Wylde beamed. “It’s been a great time. I mean, every night, you know, celebrating Don, Vinny, and Philip, and Rex, and this amazing thing that they created that just brings everyone together. So it's a beautiful thing every night.”
Listen to the full interview for more.