Charlie Benante does not want to call the Pantera world tour a reunion or a tribute.
Pantera members Phil Anselmo and Rex Brown will perform again 20 years after the band's classic lineup performed for the last time. The duo will be joined by Black Label Society guitarist, Zakk Wylde, and Benante himself on drums.
The two members got approval from the estates of the band's co-founding members and brothers, Vincent "Vinnie Paul" Abbott and guitarist "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott.
Pantera's Tour Not a Reunion
Musicians and fans said Anselmo and Brown's decision to tour as Pantera is a reunion; some called it a tribute to the Abbott brothers. However, Benante - who has been receiving hate for filling in the shoes of the late Vinnie Paul in Pantera's shows - said that the tour under the Pantera banner is more like a celebration of music.
During his recent appearance for an interview with "THAT Rocks!" the drummer told Eddie Trunk, Jim Florentine, and Don Jamieson that he was not involved in making the decision to use the band's name for its newest lineup with the two original members.
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Instead of being a tribute band to mark Pantera's reunion, Benante said the tour should be treated as an event to mark the group's legacy.
"It wasn't me. [Laughs] For us it was about the celebration of the music and Dime and Vinnie; that's what it was about since day one," he said. "No one called it a tribute; no one called it a reunion. It can't be a reunion. This is a celebration of the music of PANTERA. Come and enjoy it. And that's it. That's all could do."
Benante also reflected on the criticisms he has been receiving for his involvement with Pantera, saying that he only wants to bring the band's classic songs and let others hear the songs again.
Charlie Benante on Receiving Hate Comments For Being Pantera Drummer
The drummer has been open about the harsh comments regarding his participation in Pantera ever since he joined the band. He revealed more details about his situation to Consequence (via Louder Sound), saying he does not try to look for things online.
However, some still send him negative comments, leaving him with a ruined day.
Before Vinnie Paul died, the founder already expressed his disapproval over a potential Pantera reunion. Thus, it ignites some fans' fury now that Pantera is gearing up to hit the stage under the band's banner.
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