Pantera

Pantera formed in Arlington, Texas in 1981, started by the Abbott brothers, guitarist Dimebag Darrell and drummer Vinnie Paul, while they were still in high school. Bassist Rex Brown joined in 1982 and vocalist Phil Anselmo in 1986 (some sources say 1988). The band built a following across the Southwest with four independent albums in the 1980s, in a glam metal style, before the major-label debut Cowboys from Hell in 1990 moved it toward the heavier groove-metal sound it is known for.

Dimebag's guitar gear is the part of the band's story that most affects guitar culture. He played Dean ML and Washburn Dime guitars, with Bill Lawrence pickups and later a Seymour Duncan signature pickup, and Randall and then Krank amplifiers. Dunlop and MXR made signature pedals with him.

Tensions led to a hiatus in 2001 and a breakup in 2003, after which the Abbott brothers formed Damageplan. Dimebag died in 2004 and Vinnie Paul in 2018. In 2022 it was announced that Brown and Anselmo would reunite for a 2023 tour, with Zakk Wylde and Charlie Benante in the guitar and drum roles.