Charlie Benante has opened up about the future of the current PANTERA lineup, revealing that while new music isn’t really on the table, he would love to see the band release a live album to capture this era.
Speaking in a new interview with Hot Metal, Benante addressed ongoing discussions about whether the reformed lineup — featuring Philip Anselmo and Rex Brown alongside Benante and Zakk Wylde — might eventually create new material.
“There was some talk — but nothing, really,” he said.
“I would love to release a live album of this lineup so we can document what we did and just have it,” he added. “I think that would be a great thing.”
Since returning to the stage, the revived PANTERA lineup has sparked debate among fans, largely due to the absence of original members Dimebag Darrell — who was tragically killed in 2004 — and Vinnie Paul, who passed away in 2018. Wylde himself has often referred to the project as a “PANTERA celebration” in interviews.
Benante acknowledged the criticism, but also shared his perspective on why he embraced the opportunity.
“I feel I was put in this PANTERA situation for a reason and that’s why I embraced it so much and that’s why I love it so much, because it’s something bigger than the band,” he said. “And I wish people nowadays would be more caring and loving towards us all, you know? Not just musicians, but to each other. Stop being so rotten about things, because I’ll tell you this much: [in] 10 years’ time, a lot of this stuff is gone. So if you don’t enjoy it now, that’s it: it’s done.”
Reflecting on the early backlash, Benante encouraged skeptics to experience the shows firsthand before forming an opinion.
“I think in the beginning of the whole thing there were naysayers and all I would say is ‘just come [to one of the shows]’,” he explained. “If you like it, great. If you don’t like it, okay. You never have to come again. But the thing is, the people who were coming were bringing their kids who never saw PANTERA before. This isn’t the same. Dime and Vinnie are not there, but we are just playing these songs that need to be played again, and it’s giving people smiles on their faces again and it’s a great thing.”
As for what lies ahead, Benante made it clear that plans remain uncertain beyond a handful of scheduled performances.
“I don’t really know. I know we have a few shows this summer and then maybe some shows next year, but that’s as far as it goes.”
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