"Welcome to the system, Here's the situation
It's a bit confusing, Welcome to the maze"
-Complaint in the System (TWOM)
This page serves as a tribute to perhaps the most under-rated metal band out there... Savatage.� Driving guitars, melodic verses and powerful lyrics make their music unlike anything else. Since their start in the early 80s, Savatage has released more than a dozen albums.� Each album varies in style yet seems the same as the others. A perfect mix of keyboards, guitars, and drums held together by lyrical genius. I can't say enough about Savatage. If you haven't already, check them out. Whether you like driving metal or powerful ballads, you'll find something you love.
I was lucky to find this on CD, in my opinion. I just came across it in a record store about four hours from my home. I listened to it all the way back, loving every minute. Jon Oliva's voice is chilling, simply put. No wonder HOMK won Savatage some recognition. I won't even go into the instrumentation. We all know how great that is. The art on the cover and inside is awesome. But the best part is the linear notes. :) They're a riot. Overall, I have to say this album has no weak points and deserved a Nobel Peace Prize or something. Lyrics here
The first of three rock operas by Savatage, Streets (1991) was the last album with Jon Oliva as lead singer. The story behind Streets tells of a rock star and his battles in life. There is really no simple way to describe Streets. The songs are a brilliant mix of power and elegance. With such diversity, it is easy to say almost everyone can greatly enjoy at least one, if not all, of the tracks. Lyrics here
Edge of Thorns (1993) was the first Savatage CD I ever bought (but not the first I had heard). In my opinion, Zac was a good choice as Jon's replacement on vocals. I'm happy he doesn't sound exactly like Jon Oliva. All That I Bleed is by far my favorite song on EOT with He Carves His Stone coming in second. The great thing is, there isn't a single "weak" song on the album. The issues covered really hit home for me... hidden emotions, alcoholism, and the downfall of television.Lyrics here
I don't know why but I never get tired of Handful of Rain (1994). The album is dedicated to Criss Oliva and, may I say, I'd be proud if I were him (which I'm not, so ya know). It's hard for me to call certain songs my personal favorites on HOR but Alone You Breath and Chance are a small step up from the rest. One thing is for sure, there aren't any disappointments in HOR. Except the fact that Criss Oliva is missing, that is.Lyrics here
Dead Winter Dead (1995) is Savatage's second and darkest rock opera. I really really love the instrumentals on this album, especially Mozart and Madness. Great stuff. I'm not really sure what else to say about DWD. You just have to listen to it to understand how amazing the songs and messages are. � Lyrics here
The Wake of Magellan (1998) is the newest release by Savatage and has quickly become one of the most played around my house. The band's third rock opera, TWOM tells a very interesting story. Paul O'Neill did an excellent job with all of the writing including lyrics. As for the music... well that just speaks for itself. Yet another original work of art by Savatage.Lyrics here
"And the horses never tell, All throughout the
ride
That no one leaves, No one leaves
No one leaves... Alive"
-Paragons of Innocence (TWOM)
So finally this comes to a close.� How many of you just scrolled down here and didn't read anything?� Hmm.� I enjoyed writing it so it doesn't matter anyway.� And now for my final words... LONG LIVE SAVATAGE!!!!!
