How to Hire Savatage For Your Event!
Members:
Jon Oliva, Johnny Lee Middleton, Chris Caffery, Zachary Stevens, Jeff Plate, Al Pitrelli
Based in: the U.S.
Hire: Savatage
Savatage was formed in 1979 in Tarpon Springs, Florida, by brothers Jon Oliva (vocals, keyboards) and Criss Oliva (guitar). Originally called Avatar, the band quickly developed a distinctive sound that combined heavy metal with progressive and symphonic elements. After releasing their debut album City Beneath the Surface under the Avatar name, legal issues prompted the switch to Savatage.
Breakthrough with Hall of the Mountain King (1987)
Savatage gained widespread recognition with their 1987 album Hall of the Mountain King. Featuring intricate compositions and Criss Oliva’s virtuosic guitar work, the album was a turning point for the band. Songs like “Hall of the Mountain King” became iconic within the heavy metal genre.
The Loss of Criss Oliva and Its Impact (1993)
Tragedy struck in 1993 when guitarist Criss Oliva was killed in a car accident caused by a drunk driver. His death deeply affected the band and fans alike. Despite the loss, Jon Oliva and the remaining members continued to honor Criss’s legacy by pushing the band in new creative directions.
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The Move Toward Symphonic Metal and Concept Albums
In the 1990s, Savatage embraced a more theatrical and symphonic sound. Albums like Gutter Ballet (1989) and Streets: A Rock Opera (1991) showcased their ability to weave complex storytelling with progressive rock and metal. The band’s innovative approach laid the groundwork for the rise of symphonic metal as a genre.
The Birth of Trans-Siberian Orchestra (1996)
In 1996, producer and composer Paul O’Neill, who had been instrumental in shaping Savatage‘s later albums, collaborated with Jon Oliva and other members to create Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO). This project became a commercial juggernaut, blending rock, symphony, and holiday themes. TSO’s success overshadowed Savatage but kept its spirit alive.
Hiatus and Reunion Rumors (2002-Present)
Savatage went on an indefinite hiatus in the early 2000s as TSO’s popularity surged. However, the band never officially disbanded, and reunion performances, such as at Wacken Open Air in 2015, reignited fan interest. Jon Oliva has expressed openness to creating new music under the Savatage name.
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Legacy and Influence
Savatage remains a cornerstone of progressive and symphonic metal. Their pioneering approach influenced bands like Dream Theater, Symphony X, and Nightwish. Criss Oliva’s guitar work and Jon Oliva’s theatrical vision are celebrated as hallmarks of metal excellence.
Awards and Recognition
While not a mainstream success, Savatage earned critical acclaim for their artistic achievements. They are celebrated in metal circles as pioneers of progressive storytelling within the genre.
Enduring Fanbase and Continued Relevance
Despite their hiatus, Savatage’s music continues to resonate with fans old and new. Their influence can be felt in modern symphonic and progressive metal, ensuring their legacy endures for generations
The members of Savatage claimed in interviews conducted in 2020–2021 that they were working on new material together, with a reunion of the band confirmed by Jon Oliva in April 2023.
Savatage will play their first show in nearly ten years at the Monsters of Rock festival in São Paulo, Brazil, on April 19, 2025, followed four days later by the band’s first-ever show in Chile at the Masters of Rock festival. During the spring/summer of 2025, Savatage will play their first shows in Europe in more than 20 years at festivals such as Into the Grave in the Netherlands, Graspop Metal Meeting in Belgium, and Rock Fest in Spain.
Savatage‘s main influences include Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, AC/DC, Van Halen, Rainbow, UFO, The Beatles, Rush, The Who, Metallica, Pink Floyd, Queen, Motörhead, Scorpions, Accept, Saxon and Jethro Tull. The band has been cited as an influence or inspiration to numerous bands, including The Smashing Pumpkins, Pantera, Testament, Death, Morbid Angel, Obituary, Blind Guardian, Iced Earth, Artillery, Nasty Savage, and Anacrusis.
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