AL PITRELLI Addresses Fan’s Complaints On JON OLIVA’s Absence From SAVATAGE Line-Up: “Let Us Show You That We Can Carry On The Tradition”

We have been reporting about it endlessly, therefore you are likely already aware that after years of silence, Savatage is back, gearing up for a series of shows in Europe and South America. The band’s current lineup features Al Pitrelli on guitar, alongside Johnny Lee Middleton, Chris Caffery, Jeff Plate, and Zak Stevens. However, their return has not been without controversy, as some fans have expressed disappointment over the absence of founding vocalist and keyboardist Jon Oliva.

Oliva, who suffered a severe T7 vertebra fracture in 2023, has also been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and Ménière’s disease, making his participation impossible at this time. Addressing the concerns in an interview with Barbara Caserta of Italy’s Linea Rock, Pitrelli acknowledged the frustration of long-time fans but emphasized the importance of Oliva returning only when he is truly ready.

“There’s people who are gonna complain and I understand their complaint — I get it,” he said. “The two original members, Jon and Criss — well, Jon is not healthy enough to do this this year. And we’re gonna do everything in our power to make sure he can come back, ‘cause I want the Mountain King to come out and be amazing, not just be there for the sake of being there. And he doesn’t wanna be there unless he can do a spectacular job. Now, Criss Oliva passed away 35 years ago. I have no control over that.”

Despite the skepticism, Pitrelli encouraged fans to give the new lineup a fair chance, particularly those who enjoyed the Dead Winter Dead and The Wake of Magellan tours: “I know that if you enjoyed the Dead Winter Dead and The Wake Of Magellan tours that we had done, and everybody seemed to have, albeit Jon Oliva was with us, then come out and see for yourself. Don’t live in disappointment now. Come out and see it, and if you hate it, then I’ll buy the ticket back from you” he joked.

He also acknowledged the inevitable pushback from purists but remains confident in the band’s ability to deliver.

“There’s always gonna be people who are purists, and I respect that, and I understand that completely. We’re going to present and articulate this music in an outstanding manner, and I hope everybody enjoys it. And for the people who are like, ‘Ehhh’, just give us a chance, no pun intended. Let us show you what we’re working towards and we can carry on the tradition. I think the songs will supersede everything else. When Zak digs in and starts singing all of Zak‘s songs, everybody’s gonna just go, ‘Wow, that’s amazing.’ And we will represent the Mountain King songs the best that we can.”

Pitrelli knows that not every fan will be on board immediately, but he remains focused on those who are excited about Savatage’s return.

“We know we’re going up against some haters,” he admitted. “That’s okay. But I’m gonna spend more time thinking about the positive side of it and all the people that are just so excited to come see us. And if in the audience, there’s a couple of people with their arms folded, we’re gonna work real hard to convert you guys over. Give us a shot. Give us a shot. We’ll see what happens.”