In many ways the history of 90s metal heavyweights Pantera reads like a soap opera storyline.

There’s been triumphs, tragedies, break ups, alleged drug problems, countless controversies and most shocking of all, the senseless murder of the band’s guitarist, co-founder and creative force Dimebag Darrell Abbott, who was shot multiple times by a concertgoer while the beloved musician was performing with his band Damageplan in Columbus, Ohio on December 8, 2004. Before we go further, Hot Press must also pay our respects to Damageplan head of security Jeffrey Thompson, fan of the band Nathan Bray and employee of the venue Erin Halk, who also lost their lives on that terrible evening.

Sadly, tragedy struck one more time in 2018, when Pantera’s drummer-and Dime’s brother-Vinnie Paul died from heart failure at the age of 54. And with that, it seemed like the chances of fans getting to hear their groove-laden, speaker-rattling evergreen outsider anthems live were zero to none.

Then a miracle happened. Or yet another controversy, depending on your view...

In the summer of 2022, the surviving members - singer Phil Anselmo and bassist Rex Brown - decided to reform Pantera and hit the road with two of the Abbott brothers’ closest friends-Anthrax tub thumper Charlie Benante and Ozzy Osbourne fret wizard Zakk Wylde.

“For the fans, for the brothers, for the legacy” was their mission statement and they even received the blessing of some of Vinnie and Dime’s family members.

Now, after 32 long years, the circus finally comes back to town and Hot Press is pleased to report Pantera are still as ferocious as a pit of panthers.

Pantera @3 Arena 21-02-25. Copyright Peter O'Hanlon

There are two generations of fans here tonight who have never had the chance to experience those face melting, trend setting tracks in the flesh-including this writer and my nephew-and excitement levels are at 666% as we cosy up beside those lucky enough to witness them in the likes of the SFX and Ulster Hall in the early 90s.

Dublin was the first show to sell out on their much demanded European leg and the atmosphere is already electric in the 3Arena and they haven’t even played a note yet.

Pantera @3 Arena 21-02-25. Copyright Peter O'Hanlon

‘A New Level’ opens proceedings with a roar and the fan favourite from their game-changing, reputation making ‘92 LP Vulgar Display Of Power is unstoppable.

The thunderous ‘Mouth For War’ is up next and has Dublin screaming “REEEEEVVVVVVEEENNNNGGGEEE-UUUHHHH!” as one and the Sabbath and punk infused number quickly banishes any doubts about whether the reunion was the right thing to do.

While I’m sure some sat at home won’t be swayed, for me, seeing tracks like ‘I’m Broken’ performed live with the volume turned up to 12 (11 isn’t loud enough) is very special indeed.

The Abbotts haven’t been forgotten either and there’s a touching montage screened during the show too.

‘5 Minutes Alone’ is a big moment and that riff remains one of the greatest ever, while ‘Walk’ has everyone banging their heads and beaming from ear to ear. Much like ‘Living After Midnight’ and ‘Run To The Hills,’ their breakthrough tune is a pop song dressed in metal clothes and it’s still as catchy today as it was when it was released in 1992.

Anselmo is also in fine voice throughout it must be said, and the leather lunged, sometimes polarising frontman finally appears at peace with himself and his past. It’s a beautiful sight.

Pantera @3 Arena 21-02-25. Copyright Peter O'Hanlon

Before we know it, Pantera are signing off with the galloping ‘Yesterday Don’t Mean Shit’ sending the pit into a frenzy and confirming that yesterday actually means everything.

Afterwards, they’re serenaded with the mandatory Olé, Olé, Olés and they promise to return. Here’s hoping they do, as they’ve plenty of lost time to make up for.