While Lamb of God frontman Randy Blythe may feel a little lukewarm when it comes to the upcoming Pantera shows, ex-Megadeth bassist David Ellefson seems to be more excited (relatively speaking). Via a new conversation with The Chuck Shute Podcast, Ellefson speaks to his feelings regarding the upcoming Pantera shows.
While he speaks to how talented Charlie Benante and Zakk Wylde are, David also says that, “there’s no replacing Dime and Vinnie.” David acknowledges that some folks really want to hear the music of Pantera, and with two original members in the band – alongside these talented new additions – the bassist says, “Why not?”
Here is everything David said (all quotes have been transcribed by Blabbermouth): “Look, I just went and did Kings Of Thrash. We played early [Megadeth] songs that people haven’t heard in many years and may not ever hear again if someone like us doesn’t go play ’em. People love ’em. They love ’em. There are some original members in the organization, so they love it.
“Look, there’s no replacing Dime and Vinnie. I mean, on one level, Pantera as Pantera, with the brothers, that’s set in stone, never to be replicated again. And can’t.
“Charlie is one of the best in the business and a great dude. He keeps his head down, keeps his mouth shut. He’s a man on a mission. I can’t say enough great about the guy. And I think Zakk — you could almost see it coming. There’s no heir to the throne, if you will, for Dimebag, ’cause it’s a throne uniquely his own, but if there was ever anyone who could go out and do that justice, it would be Zakk. And I think that’s kind of a ‘thumbs up’ from everybody on that one.
“Look, people wanna hear the songs. At the end of the day, they wanna hear the songs. And the voice is still there. Rex, he’s an original member, so… Why not? Try it. [Laughs]”