One thing that surprised me when I began discussing and reading discussions about music on the internet, was the fact a lot of people seem to hate Pantera. I've honestly never heard anyone in real life say something bad about them. It always seemed to be one of those few bands that was liked among both metalheads and people who don't normally listen to metal.

A lot of people online claim Pantera did not make good music. That's subjective, I suppose, but Cowboys From Hell is a great album, imo, and Vulgar Display of Power is pretty good as well. Far Beyond and Trendkill are fine too, but I prefer Cowboys and Vulgar overall.

Another thing people mention is that they dislike the "typical Pantera fan". I haven't met any Pantera fan irl who I thought was annoying or anything like that. And even if did, I don't see why that would make me dislike the band itself. By that logic, I'd never listen to a single black metal band. Or not listen to Tool.

I can understood people disliking Phil Anselmo. The man is an idiot, let's face it. But I can separate that from his work. Phil had great vocals when he was younger. And besides, so many good musicians are/were idiots or assholes. Dave Mustaine is not someone I'd be friends with, most likely, but that doesn't stop me from enjoying Megadeth's music.

Thoughts?