Savatage's founding vocalist Jon Oliva has just dropped some exhilarating news for fans of the legendary metal band. Straight off a Facebook post, Oliva confirmed that a highly-anticipated live album from the band's iconic Gutter Ballet tour is set to be released soon. This isn't just any release – it's a triple live album that captures the magic of a memorable night at the Palace Theater in Los Angeles on June 29, 1990.
“The triple live album with Criss is being turned over to the record company this Monday, the 26th, and it will be coming out soon,” Oliva exclaimed. “This is live from the Palace in Los Angeles on the ‘Gutter Ballet’ tour, and in my opinion, it’s one of the best shows we ever did.”
Oliva's excitement over this release is palpable, and for good reason. He shared insights about the electrifying performance delivered that night and the meticulous remastering efforts that have been put into this release.
“Criss and I were absolutely on fire that night – his playing was incredible, my singing was strong, and yeah… I was pretty funny too,” he continued. “We’ve remixed and mastered the entire show, and it sounds absolutely amazing. The song list is fantastic, and the energy from that night really comes through. This is truly a must-have for every real Savatage fan. I can’t wait for you all to hear it.”
For those who have been eagerly awaiting a comprehensive release from this era, this album is a dream come true. Setlist.fm confirms that the Palace show delivered some of Savatage's classics, including "City Beneath The Surface," "White Witch," and "Of Rage And War," and built to an exhilarating conclusion with "Gutter Ballet," "Thorazine Shuffle," and "Devastation."
This isn't the first time fans are hearing music from this legendary event. Back in 1995, three tracks from this concert were featured on the "Ghost In The Ruins – A Tribute To Criss Oliva" album, marking a significant homage to the late guitarist, Criss Oliva, who tragically passed away in a car accident in 1993.
For die-hard Savatage followers, this live album is a pivotal addition to their collection. It offers listeners a chance to relive a pinnacle moment in the band’s history, where the Oliva brothers were delivering performances that defined their careers.