*Vulgar Display of Power* by Pantera, released in 1992, is widely regarded as a landmark album that significantly changed the path of heavy metal in the 1990s. Pantera started off as a glam metal band and soon transformed into something that would change metal history through their sound and innovation. To this day, no one seems to recreate the tone and aggression that can be heard throughout this album.
Dimebag Darrell’s remarkable guitar work is one of the key aspects of *Vulgar Display of Power* that sets it apart from the other bands of this era. Dimebag has been prolific throughout his career, making him one of the most influential players ever and earning him a spot in metal history with his aggressive tone and sought-after guitar playing. What sets him apart from other guitarists is the dedication and riffs he puts into each song on this album, making every song sound somewhat new but giving a similar sound throughout. With fast-paced songs like “Hostile” and “Mouth of War”, he is impressively still able to keep up with the demanding tempo of the rhythm section.
Speaking of the rhythm section, the group is comprised of Rex Brown on bass and Vinnie Paul on drums. Both play an equally vital role in shaping the album’s powerful sound. Both Rex and Vinnie manage to keep a solid rhythm going through the fast-paced songs they play. Through Rex’s coordinated notes and impressive playing of the songs, Vinne is able to keep the beat going with his fast yet violent thrashing of the drums. With slower songs like “This Love” where the beat and rhythm are slower than normal, they are still able to keep a good pace and make a solid beat.
Phil Anselmo’s vocal performance is another crucial element that ties the album together. His versatility as a vocalist allows him to convey a wide range of emotions, from anger and defiance to vulnerability and despair. Within the songs he sings, he is able to make them heavier with the deep growl of his voice, whether he be screaming or even slightly whispering. In songs like “By Demons Be Driven” he is able to keep the tone the same throughout his versatile levels of signing, as well as his more aggressive songs like “Rise” and “A New Level.”
What truly makes *Vulgar Display of Power* stand out in the variety of metal albums is its masterful blend of heaviness and groove. Its pure sound and rhythm is enough to raise the bar on well-produced/made metal. Its delicate leveling of all instruments makes each part distinctive and able to be heard profoundly, proving it one of the best metal albums of all time.
]*Vulgar Display of Power* is more than just a heavy metal album. It is a showcase of the best produced metal of the 1990’s and still shows its worth in today’s world of music, not only because the amazing music produced in this album but also because of the skill that was put towards it from the group.
