Savamania 2025

To be honest, I fell into a bit of a hole two months ago: I had just fulfilled a long-held dream – I was able to admire David Gilmour three times at the Circo Massimo in Rome. It was clear to me that this experience would never be topped. I was grateful, but also a bit empty inside.

Since yesterday, I realised that this void can be filled. Even though my week in the Eternal City will undoubtedly remain the most wonderful concert experience of my life, 2025 promises huge things: On 14 June, Savatage will be performing in Oberhausen - their first headline tour in Europe after 22 long years. Just thinking about it gives me goosebumps.

In their heyday – for me, between 1987 and 1993 – Savatage were the best metal band in the world. As I recently wrote in my review of Hall of the Mountain King as part of my Top 100 special, fate was far from kind to the two ingenious Oliva brothers...

And that hasn't changed to this day: Jon is unfortunately unable to be on stage in Europe next summer for health reasons. This is extremely regrettable – but it's also not surprising given the severity of his illnesses.

Now, of course, there are people who think that a Savatage tour without Jon makes no sense. I see it differently: the announced lineup - consisting of Zak Stevens (vocals), Johnny Lee Middleton (bass), Chris Caffery (guitar), Al Pitrelli (guitar) and Jeff Plate (drums) ) - is not only world class, but also has every right to perform under the legendary moniker due to their contributions to the band since the late 1980s and early 1990s.

It will be exciting to see what the set list looks like. I am sure that I will experience numerous unforgettable moments between ecstasy and tears. Fortunately, some familiar faces that I have known for many years from concerts and festivals have already secured tickets for Savamania in the Ruhr area. So from now on it's time to count the days - and listen to as much Savatage as possible.