By Vinnie Apicella

Well this one kind of creeped up without warning didn't it? "Ghost in the Ruins" is a tribute to former founder/guitarist Criss Oliva, who died needlessly and way too young a few years back. All the old classics are presented during a number of live shows that covered '87-'90 when Jon Oliva was the singer and features the original classic lineup-just the way you remembered 'em. And for those that don't, now is your chance-hear them live and at their peak! If ever there was a band that exemplified power, might and majesty in a live performance, it was they. Now several years and numerous lineup changes later, little has changed for a band that remains the class of the metal elite. The focus here is on the Savatage that once was-the one that first saw the light of day with their first release "The Dungeons are Calling" from '83, hit the big time with '87's pinnacle "Hall of the Mountain King," and broke new ground with the highly regarded rock opera "Streets" in 1990. Opening here, we catch a glimpse of the "City Beneath the Surface" from The Ritz in New York City followed by a triple play from their "…Mountain King" album during their assault on Philadelphia's Spectrum in '88-"24 Hours Ago," which opened many a show back in the day, "Legions," and "Strange Wings," which even now remains a core classic for the listening faithful! This is not just some quickly thrown together live holdover while the group still figures out their next move. It really is a testament to their talents for bringing the music to life and keeping the flame burning for Criss, who will always be regarded as one of the best in his field-hear him do a blinding intro that leads into the "Hall of the Mountain King," clipped from their gig at L'amour's in Brooklyn. "When the Crowds are Gone" from the "Gutter Ballet" disc seems to hold new significance in this context-lyrically, emotionally-it all just fits with what is a touching moment for the brief life of a well respected guitarist, band mate and brother and the band that's never lost the belief….

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