Is it just me, or does this Pantera tour feel… wrong?

Given the long, documented tension between Dimebag, Vinnie Paul, and Phil, this reunion feels less like a tribute and more like a betrayal of the band’s core members. Dime and Vinnie were the heart of Pantera—founding members who made it clear during their lives that they didn’t support the idea of a reformed Pantera, especially not with Zakk Wylde on guitar. Vinnie specifically opposed that idea, and yet here we are.

I love Pantera. Their catalog helped shape modern metal. But this tour feels like a slap in the face to their legacy—and even their wishes. Calling it something else—Cowboys From Hell, 101 Proof, Domination, whatever—would at least show some respect and self-awareness. But using the Pantera name without Dime or Vinnie? It doesn’t sit right. It’s like seeing Pink Floyd without Gilmour. It’s not the same band. It’s not the band.

If Phil and Rex were donating proceeds to Dime or Vinnie’s families, or framing this tour as a true tribute with transparency and humility, maybe it wouldn’t sting as much. But let’s be honest—Phil walked away from Pantera to pursue Down and Superjoint. And now, with those bands irrelevant, he’s back to capitalize on the Pantera name… conveniently after Dime and Vinnie can no longer object.

I respect Zakk. I love BLS and all he’s done with Ozzy. This isn’t about him. This is about Phil and Rex.

To me, this tour feels less like honoring the past and more like exploiting it.