Review Summary: Pantera came back with a vengeance!
Released in 1992, Vulgar Display of Power takes the formula laid out in Cowboys from Hell and turns up the aggression, tightening the songwriting, boosting the production, and sharpening the band’s musical identity. It’s a heavier, leaner, and more direct effort, with a stronger sense of purpose, though not without trade-offs.
From the start, Mouth for War sets the tone with a massive sound: powerful riffs, fast pace, and intense vocals. A New Level follows with even more fury, establishing that this album won’t just repeat its predecessor, it’s aiming to define a new standard. The third track, Walk, is arguably the band’s most iconic song. Slower, heavier, and built around a crushing riff, it’s a groove metal anthem with an unforgettable chorus.
Then comes ***ing Hostile, a short blast of fury that doesn’t waste a second. It’s fast, vicious, and keeps the energy high. This Love introduces some variety, starting slow and melodic before erupting into one of the album’s most dynamic tracks. Rise follows, bringing speed, technicality, and unrelenting force — another highlight.
No Good (Attack the Radical) stands out thanks to its aggressive groove and one of the best distorted bass lines on the album. Its structure and solo work harken back to the more adventurous spirit of Cowboys from Hell. Live in a Hole leans slightly toward stoner or even grunge vibes, with a darker, sludgier atmosphere — an interesting shift in tone.
By Regular People (Conceit), however, the formula starts to wear thin. While still solid, the constant barrage of heavy riffs and shouted vocals begins to feel a bit repetitive. This trend continues with By Demons Be Driven, a track that feels overlong and a bit directionless.
Thankfully, Hollow closes the album on a high note. Opening with classic-style melodic guitar harmonies reminiscent of early Metallica, it quickly builds into an emotionally powerful and progressive track. It’s the most ambitious piece here and a perfect ending, showing Pantera’s ability to combine heaviness with nuance.
Conclusion: Vulgar Display of Power is a landmark album in the history of groove metal. It helped define the sound of the 90s and showcases Pantera at their most intense. However, it’s slightly less versatile than Cowboys from Hell, sacrificing some melodic range and creativity for sheer brutality. Still, the consistency, tight execution, and overall impact are undeniable.
Best tracks: Walk, This Love, Rise, Hollow.
