STRYPER‘s Michael Sweet recently dropped a hint that his band will be sharing the stage with PANTERA at this year’s edition of Mexico’s Hell & Heaven Metal Fest.
Sweet dropped the hint while commenting on the recent announcement that PANTERA‘s surviving members of Philip Anselmo (vocals) and Rex Brown (bass) would team up with guitarist Zakk Wylde (OZZY OSBOURNE, BLACK LABEL SOCIETY) and drummer Charlie Benante (ANTHRAX) for a world tour under the PANTERA name.
Yesterday, Sweet posted a new PANTERA photo composite from BLABBERMOUTH.NET to his Instagram which included the following message: “What’s my take on the new @panteraofficial lineup? Well, first of all it doesn’t matter what I think. That being said, I think it’s great! As long as they have the Abbott Family’s blessings and they’re respectful while honoring Dime & Vinnie, I applaud the decision to move forward.
“I look at it more so as a ‘Celebration’, celebrating the lives and music of The Abbott Brothers. Also, who better to perform Darrell’s parts but the one and only @zakkwyldebls – THE perfect guy for the job. Then add @charbenante to cover for Vinnie? Again, perfect! And let’s not forget all the work that Phil & Rex put into PANTERA early on as well.
“I wish the band nothing but the best and more importantly, I wish the Abbott Family nothing but peace and love.
“In closing, I’ll get to witness this lineup up close and personal in Mexico”.
The newly announced lineup of PANTERA will headline a number of major festivals across North America and Europe in 2023 as well as play some of their own headline shows.
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