Good news for all you people who think the Pantera reunion shouldn’t be happening without the Abbott brothers — just don’t go! That’s according to Anthrax drummer Charlie Benante, who said as much during a meet-and-greet with fans before a show in Orlando this past Friday (as transcribed by Blabbermouth).
As seen in the video below, Anthrax was interacting with fans when one person mentioned to Benante how the idea of a Pantera reunion had generated some controversy online since both “Dimebag” Darrell and Vinnie Paul are no longer with us. In response, Charlie’s asked “Why is there flak?” When the fan responded with “People are stupid,” he nodded and said “There you go” before telling anyone that doesn’t think the reunion should happen, “Don’t come.”
Benante is participating in the Pantera reunion, along with Zakk Wylde (Black Label Society, Ozzy Osbourne) and surviving members, vocalist Phil Anselmo and bassist Rex Brown. The band will headline major North American and European festivals, as well as go on a run of their own headlining shows.
To that end, Benante said he “didn’t think” that the Pantera reunion will go on an extensive run on their own. Regardless, Scott Ian and the other members of Anthrax weren’t worried that Benante’s involvement would change the band’s trajectory.
“The Pantera thing is not gonna change anything we’re doing,” Ian said.
There’s been a ton of discussion swirling around whether this reunion should even take place. Earlier this month, Anselmo —who would know a thing or two about the Abbott brothers — said they would want the show to go on without them.
“Dimebag and Vince always wanted this band to be a legacy band, to be massive, to be our own conduit to success, simply put. I think Dime and Vince—I know Dime and Vince—would want the legacy and the name of Pantera to go on and on and on and in everybody’s damn face. I know that for sure. Abso-fucking-utely, dude. That would be their biggest dream.”