Jon Oliva has album ready for new Savatage music
After over twenty years of absence from the live music scene, SAVATAGE, the American metal band known for blending heavy, progressive, and power metal, is gearing up for a long-awaited return to the stage with a series of upcoming concerts. Since their last full performance in 2002 at Wacken Open Air and a subsequent show in 2015, the band has been relatively inactive in terms of live performances. However, in a much-anticipated event set to kick off in April, SAVATAGE will be embarking on a tour that will take them to South America and Europe.
The band’s return to the live music circuit is slated to begin with a performance in Brazil at the Monsters Of Rock festival on April 19. The festival will feature a star-studded lineup that includes SCORPIONS, JUDAS PRIEST, EUROPE, OPETH, QUEENSRŸCHE, and STRATOVARIUS. Following this performance, there is speculation about a potential solo concert by SAVATAGE at Espaço Unimed on April 21, although this has not been officially confirmed. Despite the excitement surrounding these upcoming performances, there is a notable absence on stage. Jon Oliva, the band’s founding vocalist and keyboardist, will not be able to join his bandmates due to health complications.
In a recent interview, Oliva expressed the physical challenges he faces as a result of a T7 vertebra fracture in three places, multiple sclerosis, and Ménière’s disease. These conditions have left him reliant on a wheelchair and unable to participate actively in the upcoming tour. Oliva revealed that he is unable to sing due to the pain he experiences, and his limited mobility restricts his ability to perform on stage. Despite considering surgery as an option, Oliva ultimately decided against it, opting instead to allow his body to heal naturally.
Despite his inability to tour, Oliva remains deeply involved in SAVATAGE, particularly in the band’s music and legacy. The musician excitedly shared details about their highly anticipated new album, which he revealed is nearly complete after a year of intermittent work. While acknowledging that he has enough material for four albums, Oliva hinted that this may not be their final release, contradicting previous statements that suggested otherwise. He expressed uncertainty about the future, leaving fans curious about what lies ahead for the band.
In a separate interview, guitarist Chris Caffery and drummer Jeff Plate discussed the genesis of the SAVATAGE reunion, attributing it to the unwavering support of their dedicated fanbase. Despite the band’s absence from the live music scene, they emphasized that SAVATAGE never officially disbanded and has continued to perform select songs during TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA shows. The fan outcry for a reunion eventually caught the band’s attention, prompting them to consider a return to live performances. While Oliva’s health challenges present a significant hurdle, the band remains committed to involving him in all future endeavors.
As SAVATAGE prepares to hit the stage once again after a prolonged hiatus, fans eagerly anticipate their return and the promise of new music from the legendary metal band.