SAVATAGE Reflects on Comeback Performances and Upcoming European Tour
Return to the Stage
In a recent interview with Ed Hackimer from This Day In Metal, Chris Caffery, the guitarist of the iconic progressive metal band SAVATAGE, shared insights about the band’s comeback performances in 2025 and what fans can expect from their upcoming shows in Europe later this summer. Caffery noted, “We did four shows in South America [in April 2025]. Three were festivals and one was a headline, and then we did 10 shows in Europe [in June 2025], which was split 50/50 between five headline and five festival shows. And it just felt great to be back. And we just made the decision to keep playing.”
Commitment to Quality Performances
Caffery emphasized the band’s dedication to delivering high-quality performances, stating, “We’re gonna get everywhere we can. It’s a process that’s being done in a way where we feel we could do justice to all the shows. We don’t wanna go and jump and take one offer for one show somewhere and just fly in there and show up and not have it be at the same level as all the other ones. So we’re rehearsing and spending a lot of time getting ourselves ready for everything we do.”
Preparation for European Shows
With four weeks of dates scheduled in Europe, Caffery expressed excitement about the rehearsals and the unique locations they will perform, including a special show in the Amphitheater of Pompeii, Italy. He mentioned, “We have a 40-person orchestra [playing with us], and Al [Pitrelli, SAVATAGE guitarist] and Jon [Oliva, SAVATAGE mastermind] and even with our studio and musical directors from TSO [TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA] are putting together really cool orchestrations for it.” This concert is set to be a standout event, with plans to film it for those who cannot attend.
Unique Setlist for Pompeii Concert
Caffery hinted at a distinct setlist for the Pompeii show, inspired by the late producer Paul O’Neill’s vision of blending classical music with heavy metal. “When Paul had us do the ‘Prelude To Madness’ before ‘Hall Of The Mountain King’, his whole thing was to have the orchestra battling the rock band,” he explained. “And through our music, songs like ‘Gutter Ballet’… he was always getting to the point of marrying those two worlds.” The upcoming performance promises to be a unique fusion of rock and orchestral music.
Recent Performances and Lineup Changes
In early June 2026, SAVATAGE performed at two festivals in Sweden and France, with drummer Blas Elias temporarily filling in for longtime drummer Jeff Plate due to medical reasons. The current lineup includes vocalist Zak Stevens, guitarists Al Pitrelli and Chris Caffery, bassist Johnny Lee Middleton, and drummer Jeff Plate, who will return for the majority of the tour.
A Legacy of Triumph and Tragedy
Founded in Tampa, Florida, by brothers Jon and Criss Oliva, SAVATAGE has a storied history marked by both triumph and tragedy. Their groundbreaking albums, such as “Hall Of The Mountain King” (1987) and the rock opera “Streets” (1991), continue to resonate with fans globally. Despite the loss of Criss Oliva in 1993, the band persevered, leading to the transformative “Dead Winter Dead” (1995).
Continued Fan Support
Throughout their 40-year career, SAVATAGE has cultivated a dedicated cult following. The band’s reunion at the Wacken Open Air festival in 2015 showcased their legendary status and the unwavering devotion of their fans, leading to their first headline shows in over two decades in 2025. This revival allowed long-time followers to share the experience with new fans discovering their powerful music for the first time.
Conclusion
SAVATAGE’s plans for the summer 2026 tour highlight their commitment to delivering exceptional performances while honoring their rich musical legacy. With the anticipation building for their unique concert in Pompeii, fans can look forward to a memorable experience that intertwines rock and orchestral elements, showcasing the band’s enduring creativity and passion.
FAQs
When did SAVATAGE perform their comeback shows?
SAVATAGE performed comeback shows in April 2025 in South America and June 2025 in Europe.
What is unique about the Pompeii concert?
The Pompeii concert will feature a 40-person orchestra and a distinct setlist, blending classical music with heavy metal elements.
Who is currently in the SAVATAGE lineup?
The current lineup includes Zak Stevens (vocals), Chris Caffery (guitar), Al Pitrelli (guitar), Johnny Lee Middleton (bass), and Jeff Plate (drums), with Blas Elias filling in for Plate during the first two shows of the tour.
What is SAVATAGE’s history?
SAVATAGE was founded in Tampa, Florida, by Jon and Criss Oliva and has a legacy marked by both triumph and tragedy, with notable albums like “Hall Of The Mountain King” and “Streets.” They have a dedicated cult following and have made a successful comeback in recent years.
