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SAVATAGE – POETS AND MADMEN
2001 SPV
Well, this album has been available for many months now, but I am just getting around to writing my opinion of it. Obviously, it would not be here if it were not recommended. I was lucky enough to get the limited edition box set with poster and sticker, so you have to appreciate the extra effort that SPV put into it. Savatage had been on Atlantic Records forever, I guess the parting of the ways was long overdue. Savatage is a band that has been around a long time and has been through a lot in their career. I won't go into the history of the band, but basically if you've been waiting for them to return to basics, i.e., four members and Jon Oliva singing, then here it is. Zak Stevens and Al Pitrelli are both gone from the band (although some solos are supplied by Pitrelli). Once again, Paul O'Neill contributes lyrics, production and guidance. His production is great throughout the album, but his greatest contribution is the story!

The album is eleven songs (the box set has a bonus track and video) that make a concept album, but the songs can stand on their own also. The story is based on a photograph (to see it, look under the jewel tray) that a photo journalist named Kevin Carter took and then went crazy because the photo was so disturbing. And it IS disturbing, wait until you see it. It took Savatage four years to put together POETS AND MADMEN, so this album should be as great as you would expect. Parts of it are dark, some upbeat, and some are anthemic. Some of my favorite songs include "Stay With Me A While," "There In The Silence," I Seek Power," "Awaken" and the centerpiece of the album, "Morphine Child." Also, Chris Caffrey has really stepped up as lead guitarist. Chris has been in the shadows of Cris Oliva and Al Pitrelli for years now, but his playing is really awesome, and he stands out on this album. He is a great guitarist! Savatage is a band with some class that knows how to treat their fans. I hope they are around for another 20 years.

Click here for Link to Savatage Audio