Ola Englund showcases Dimebag’s guitars at Guitar World

Renowned metal guitarist Ola Englund recently had the honor of performing at the Dimebash event, a tribute show dedicated to the late Dimebag Darrell and Vinnie Paul. Englund, known for his work with bands like Solar Guitars, joined forces with Chris Broderick and guitarist Atilla Vörös to pay homage to Dimebag by playing some of his original Washburn electric guitars.

Englund’s connection to Pantera runs deep; he was considered for a spot in the band when original members Phil Anselmo and Rex Brown were contemplating a reunion in 2022. Ultimately, Zakk Wylde was chosen for the role, but Englund’s passion for Dimebag’s legacy remains unwavering. During the recent NAMM 2026 weekend, Englund seized the opportunity to wield another one of Dimebag’s cherished guitars at the Dimebash event at Belasco in Los Angeles, California.

The lure of playing Dimebag’s guitars at such a prestigious event was not lost on Englund, who received an unexpected message from Grady Champion, Dimebag’s former guitar tech, offering him the chance to perform with the legend’s personal instruments. Initially confused, Englund thought Champion was referring to the new Dime Guitarz models, but soon realized he was being presented with a rare opportunity to play Dimebag’s authentic guitars.

The guitars in question were the Washburn Dime 3 “Southern Cross,” famously featured on Reinventing the Steel; the iconic green-and-yellow sunburst “Dime Slime” with its distinctive upside-down Volkswagen sticker; and the metal-plated “Stealth” axe. Englund’s astonishment at being entrusted with these legendary instruments was palpable as he prepared for the show with Atilla Vörös, who would play the “Dime Slime” during the performance.

Englund’s set at the Dimebash event included electrifying renditions of songs like Hard Lines Sunken Cheeks, Floods, and the timeless classic, Five Minutes Alone. His performance, characterized by deftly executed pinch harmonics, paid a fitting tribute to Dimebag Darrell’s signature style and influence on the metal genre.

Reflecting on the experience after the show, Englund expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to play Dimebag’s guitars and praised the camaraderie and energy of the event. He lauded Atilla Vörös’s skill as a guitarist and marveled at the surreal nature of performing with such legendary instruments. For Englund, this evening was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that he will always cherish.

In the realm of Pantera-related news, Zakk Wylde, who ultimately landed the spot in the band, has acknowledged the profound impact of Dimebag Darrell’s legacy on the world of metal guitar. Wylde’s appreciation for Dimebag’s musical contributions underscores the enduring influence and reverence that Dimebag continues to inspire within the music community.