Savatage reveals European tour dates for Summer 2026
Acclaimed progressive metal innovators Savatage have revealed details of their upcoming “Prelude to Madness” Tour, set to take place across Europe during the summer of 2026. The tour will consist of nine headline shows along with appearances at various festivals, starting on July 19 in Istanbul, Turkey. This tour marks the band’s highly anticipated return to the stage following their successful comeback in 2025 after nearly two decades of absence.
Joining Savatage on select dates during the tour will be Armored Saint, Vision Divine, and Nevermore, promising an unforgettable experience for fans. Among the highlights of this tour is a special performance at the historic Amphitheater of Pompeii, where the band will play alongside an orchestra for a unique and memorable evening.
Fans eager to secure their spot at these shows can sign up for pre-sales starting on November 4th, with tickets available to the general public on November 7th. The band has promised an explosive setlist for the 2026 tour, encompassing a wide range of classic songs and lesser-known tracks from their extensive catalog. This showcase of their musical prowess is a testament to their dedication to their loyal fanbase known as “The Legion”.
Lead vocalist Zak Stevens expressed his excitement for the upcoming tour, particularly looking forward to performing in cities such as Istanbul, Bucharest, Este, Warsaw, and Leipzig for the first time. Stevens emphasized the band’s enthusiasm for the upcoming shows and highlighted the lineup of special guest acts that will be joining them on stage.
Savatage’s musical journey began in Tampa, Florida, founded by brothers Jon and Criss Oliva. Over the years, the band has released groundbreaking albums like “Hall of the Mountain King” and “Streets”, which have left a lasting impact on fans worldwide. Despite facing tragedy with the loss of guitarist Criss Oliva, Savatage persevered and continued to create music, culminating in the critically acclaimed album “Dead Winter Dead” in 1995.
Throughout their illustrious four-decade career, Savatage has built a devoted following of fans, who eagerly awaited their return to live performances during their hiatus from touring. Their reunion performance at Germany’s Wacken Open Air festival in 2015 captivated audiences and reestablished their legendary status in the metal community.
The 2026 “Prelude to Madness” Tour will feature Savatage’s current lineup, including Zak Stevens on vocals, Al Pitrelli and Chris Caffery on guitars, Johnny Lee Middleton on bass, and Jeff Plate on drums. The tour will span across various European cities, including festival appearances and headline shows showcasing the band’s dynamic and energetic live performances.
Savatage’s legacy as progressive metal pioneers is undeniable, with their innovative blend of thrash, progressive, power metal, and classic hard rock influencing numerous artists and earning them a dedicated global fanbase. With their upcoming tour, the band aims to continue captivating audiences with their timeless music and electrifying performances, solidifying their position as one of metal’s most influential and enduring acts.