'TAGE MAHAL

This is Jon Oliva's first solo record. Jon of course was the vocalist and keyboard player for SAVATAGE for many years. In his own words he says "I wanted to visit many of my influences, everything from the BEATLES to BLACK SABBATH, QUEEN to DEEP PURPLE and beyond". He decided to record and play with the 4 band members that Zak Stevens (former SAVATAGE vocalist) had used for his own solo record. Jon also brought in long time SAVATAGE drummer Steve Wacholz for a couple of tracks. I've never been a fan of Jon's vocals, they are so raspy and course. It always takes me some time to get used to them.

"The Dark" opens with vocals and piano. The piano melodies continue through this whole song. It gets quite heavy and there are background vocals similar to what QUEEN did. "People Say-Gimme Some Hell" has a good beat and is a very catchy, uptempo song. "Guardian Of Forever" is one of my favourites as Jon's vocals are higher pitched. A dark, brooding and heavy soundscape appears as the guitars grind away.Things change drastically the rest of the way to a brighter and energetic sound. "Slipping Away" has some good, heavy riffing and the bass is great. The drummer is absolutely beating the hell out of his drum kit. Some scorching guitar to follow.

"Walk Alone" has reserved vocals with piano to open, this is contrasted throughout with the intense vocals and heavy soundscape. "The Nonsensible Ravings Of The Lunatic Mind" opens with some blistering guitar as the rough vocals, piano, backing vocals and drums follow. "No Escape" is a dark, heavy song with backing vocals. Scalding guitar solos follow. "Father, Son, Holy Spirit" is ok, while "All The Time" has a good driving beat and the vocals are better. "Nowhere To Run" has such meaningful lyrics and a catchy riff. Some great guitar and synth work in this one. "Pain" is my favourite. A heavy song with good vocals.The drum, bass melody with the guitar playing over the top is amazing. "Outside The Door" again has rough vocals and great guitar later. "Fly Away" is mellow with acoustic guitar and higher pitched vocals. Nice. It gets heavier later.

Highly recommended to SAVATAGE fans. 3.5 stars.