It’s time for a pop quiz everybody. What do the songs “Gutter Ballet” and “Christmas Eve Sarajevo 12/24” have in common? The answer, of course, is the brilliant songwriting and vocal delivery of Jon Oliva. We all know Jon as the co-founder and lead vocalist of the progressive rock group Savatage and the mastermind behind the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Thirty years after forming Savatage, Jon is back with his first solo album, “Raise The Curtain.”
For “Raise The Curtain,” Jon utilizes music from his late brother and Savatage co-founder, Criss Oliva as well as writing new material with Dan Fasciano. The result is an intriguing mix of theatrical, blues, metal, and jazz. Wanting to play as much of the music himself, Jon is featured on vocals, guitars, bass, keyboards, and even some of the drum tracks. Both musically and vocally, Oliva is spot on. The title track kicks things off with a real Styx like feel, very theatrical. I loved the groovy horns of “Ten Years” and the heavier feel of “Soul Chaser.” Other great tracks include the crazy keyboard runs of “Father Time” and the softer, piano driven “Soldier.” You won’t want to miss the incredible jam session of “The Witch.”
The record is both epic and glorious and with a little of everything included will appeal to fans of all genres of rock. Not only does Jon Oliva “Raise The Curtain” with this release, but he raises the bar and sets it incredibly high.
