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Trans-Siberian Orchestra & Savatage: Wacken Open Air 2015
At Wacken Open Air (W:O:A) 2015 music festival in northern Germany, TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA (TSO) and SAVATAGE wowed 80,000-plus attendees with a never-before-attempted music festival performance. Following a 40-minute SAVATAGE set and a 40-minute TSO set, TSO and SAVATAGE band members, across two of the festival's main stages, performed a perfectly coordinated set of fan favorites. This ambitious feat, both musically and logistically, was helmed by Paul O'Neill. Al Pitrelli led TSO on the "True Metal Stage" and Jon Oliva headed SAVATAGE on the "Black Stage." Beyond the unprecedented act of two bands hitting the stage at the same time, this show was also memorable as it marked progressive metal originators SAVATAGE's first show in over a decade, TSO's first European festival show, as well as the only live appearances of both bands in Europe in 2015.
Insights
Plot Summary
This release captures the monumental joint performance of Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) and Savatage at the iconic Wacken Open Air festival in 2015. The concert celebrated the history and legacy of Savatage, featuring members from various eras of the band, alongside the symphonic and theatrical elements of TSO. It was a unique event showcasing both the heavy metal roots and the elaborate, rock opera style that defines these interconnected musical entities.
Critical Reception
As a live recording and a tribute/celebration of Savatage's legacy, critical reception focuses on the energy of the performance, the reunion of past members, and the spectacle of the Wacken Open Air stage. It's generally viewed as a significant event for fans of both Savatage and TSO, offering a powerful live experience that highlights the enduring appeal of the music and its musicians.
What Reviewers Say
A powerful and emotional performance, especially for long-time Savatage fans.
The combination of Savatage's legacy with TSO's stagecraft was a highlight of the festival.
Celebrates the band's history with a high-energy setlist and strong musicianship.
Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this live recording is not readily available, but fan reactions generally praise the reunion aspect and the impressive live execution of both Savatage classics and TSO-style arrangements.
Awards & Accolades
None notable (Live performance recording)
Fun Fact
This performance marked a rare occasion where members from different eras of Savatage, alongside the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, shared the stage at a major festival, celebrating the band's rich musical history.
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