{"id":7284,"date":"2021-12-17T23:20:17","date_gmt":"2021-12-18T04:20:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/?p=7284"},"modified":"2021-12-18T10:54:57","modified_gmt":"2021-12-18T15:54:57","slug":"trans-siberian-orchestra-christmas-eve-and-other-stories-25th-anniversary","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/index.php\/2021\/12\/17\/trans-siberian-orchestra-christmas-eve-and-other-stories-25th-anniversary\/","title":{"rendered":"TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA: Christmas Eve and Other Stories (25th Anniversary)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>TSO East <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bon Secours Wellness Arena &#8211; Greenville, SC (December 10th, 2021)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Return of Live Music<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The past nearly two years have been (and remain) a challenge for the entire planet, not only in terms of the Covid-19 pandemic but also in terms of world economic turmoil and a growing stress on the fabric of humanity itself. Along with the struggles for mankind to gather in fellowship (in whatever form that may take) over the past two years, there is no denying that the privilege to celebrate life through music in the \u201clive\u201d setting has been seriously degraded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But as we \u201cmove on\u201d and learn to live with \u2013 rather than hide from \u2013 the threats of a considerably harmful pathogen in our midst, we can be blessed and assured that many-an-artist out there is more than willing, and more than able, to \u201cbring it to us\u201d live!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Amongst many other significant events in 2021, there is no denying that the return of \u201clive\u201d music ranks \u2013 for many of us \u2013 as one of the greatest. Let\u2019s face it \u2013 music has the immeasurable ability to draw people from all walks of life together in joy, celebration and unity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As many great acts and artists are succeeding in accomplishing this in 2021, there are few that I can count on my fingers more anticipated than the return of Trans-Siberian Orchestra. This musical\/artistic entity \u2013 originally conceived by the late <strong>Paul O\u2019Neill<\/strong> in 1995-96 \u2013 has been a bastion of not only superb, cutting-edge live performance since their Philadelphia debut in 1999, but they have inspired countless lives over the past 25 years through the magic and message (of hope) in their enigmatic form of rock\/metal symphonic opera.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"843\" height=\"632\" src=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSO-Venue.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7285\" srcset=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSO-Venue.jpg 843w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSO-Venue-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSO-Venue-150x112.jpg 150w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSO-Venue-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 843px) 100vw, 843px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Christmas Gift<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>My wife and children will be the first to point-out that it can be a challenge to find a Christmas present for their husband\/dad. Guilty as charged. When you are constantly in seek of rare and alternative editions of all things musical, or when you simply buy what you want to read or listen to on demand, it makes surprise \u201cgifts\u201d a bit daunting. Thankfully, my family is sensitive to this quality and they remain vigilant for any opportunity to \u201cblindside\u201d me with a piece of my own medicine!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hence, my son and daughter-in-law (artists in truth) bought me and my wife tickets to go with them to the 2021 TSO show in Greenville, SC. I\u2019d never been, my wife had never been \u2013 the perfect Christmas gift, indeed!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, you read that right. Never been \u2026 to one of the live shows. Although TSO has been a part of our Christmas celebrations for years \u2013 I read the narratives and we listen to the music while opening gifts Christmas morning \u2013 my wife and I had never seen them perform live. Honestly, I couldn\u2019t think of a better time than 2021 for this \u201cgift\u201d as this year not only marks the return of TSO to the pre-holiday touring frenzy, but also marks the 25<sup>th<\/sup> anniversary of their \u201clive\u201d manifestation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As now band spokesman (and original member\/guitarist) <strong>Chris Caffery<\/strong> highlights during the show, the guys in <strong>Savatage<\/strong> (circa 1996) never would have imagined that O\u2019Neill\u2019s concept would become what it has become today. In full circle, O\u2019Neill\u2019s gift to the world became our gift (and the gift to many others as well) this Christmas season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-large-font-size\"><strong><span class=\"has-inline-color has-vivid-purple-color\">\u201cThe wish of a soul for the happiness of another\u201d<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Story<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The lion\u2019s share of material for the 25<sup>th<\/sup> Anniversary show is, in essence, most of the material \u2013 recreated with very few adaptations \u2013 from the original 1996 debut album, <em>Christmas Eve and Other Stories<\/em>. In fact, only \u201cA Star to Follow,\u201d \u201cThe Silent Nutcracker\u201d and \u201cThe First Noel,\u201d the latter two acoustic interlude instrumentals, have been excluded. (see set list below)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Storyteller <strong>Bryan Hicks<\/strong> (TSO East) powerfully and expressively narrates the spoken word verbatim from the original liner notes so his words interconnect the \u201cscenes\u201d of this massive theatrical. Whereas these words (on the original release) were only in the lyric booklet, they are brought to life anew within the context of the music. Hicks booming voice perfectly articulates every vital word and the flow is seamless between the songs and his narrative.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The gist of it all\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size\"><em><span class=\"has-inline-color has-vivid-red-color\">It\u2019s every gift that someone gives, expecting nothing back<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-medium-font-size\"><em><span class=\"has-inline-color has-vivid-red-color\">It\u2019s every kindness that we do, each simple little act<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-right\">\u2026the things that we do in life will always end up touching others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-large-font-size\"><span class=\"has-inline-color has-vivid-green-cyan-color\"><strong>\u201cChristmas stays if we don\u2019t forget its meaning.\u201d<\/strong><\/span> \u2013 <strong>\u201cPromises to Keep\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"807\" height=\"605\" src=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSO-Pre-show.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7286\" srcset=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSO-Pre-show.jpg 807w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSO-Pre-show-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSO-Pre-show-150x112.jpg 150w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSO-Pre-show-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 807px) 100vw, 807px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Two Shows in One<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending on your vantage point (your seats) this show plays out very differently. There is the stage show (the band members doing their thing) and then the light\/effects show which plays out in the expanse of the entire venue. While the former is better appreciated from the floor and up-close seating, the latter is best appreciated from a distance. We were in the upper balcony, near dead-center \u2013 Bon Secours Wellness Arena basically a glorified hockey rink \u2013 and so were treated to an expansive view of not only the entire arena, but also the stage and the video\/effect \u201ccuboid\u201d behind the soundboard (literally at our feet). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hopefully the words which follow will best describe what was going on with the music and the pictures here presented what was going on with the lights and effects. Regardless of your vantage point, the residual &#8220;smoke&#8221; (from the previous 4 P.M. show) in the arena portends what is to follow, and it is hard not to feel the excitement of something very special and very powerful in the air as the seats begin to fill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Sound<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Perhaps the most gratifying thing for me was how much better these songs sound in the live setting \u2013 they have a whole new life \u2013 and that TSO delivers a powerful sonic punch and precision. As much as the light show astounds \u2013 undeniably world-class effects \u2013 it still comes down to the music. One thing I didn\u2019t realize about the music is that TSO employs local talent (the strings) with each show, and so you\u2019ve got the seasoned, consummate artists performing alongside less experienced, yet equally passionate players. Yet another example of TSO being all about giving back (and paying forward) to the communities they entertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So to this regard, TSO live is a loud and \u201cheavy metal\u201d affair. The guitars, violin and drums all lock in tempo with crushing precision and intensity \u2013 an intensity which rivals the commanding light and effects show. The balance between the two is perfect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"737\" src=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOWelcome1-1024x737.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7287\" srcset=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOWelcome1-1024x737.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOWelcome1-300x216.jpg 300w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOWelcome1-150x108.jpg 150w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOWelcome1-768x552.jpg 768w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOWelcome1.jpg 1372w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Christmas Eve&#8230;<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>I can\u2019t think of a better way to open this anniversary show than with <strong>\u201cWelcome\u201d<\/strong> (to the show), originally released on the 1998 Savatage <em>Wake of Magellan<\/em> CD. (The original TSO album opened with \u201cAn Angel Came Down\u201d which as a ballad isn\u2019t exactly conducive to charging a crowd of listeners.) The floating stages are one of the most dynamic elements of this opening segment, initially carrying the two guitarists and <strong>Zak Stevens<\/strong> (in the middle) as he belts out the welcoming chants. Stevens originally recorded this song with Savatage in 1998 and so he is the perfect \u201cvoice\u201d to introduce the show.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"699\" src=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOBeethoven-1024x699.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7288\" srcset=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOBeethoven-1024x699.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOBeethoven-300x205.jpg 300w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOBeethoven-150x102.jpg 150w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOBeethoven-768x524.jpg 768w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOBeethoven.jpg 1457w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The opener flows seamlessly into the <strong>\u201cBeethoven\u201d<\/strong> instrumental (from the 2000 release <em>Beethoven\u2019s Last Night<\/em>) as the crowd is introduced to <strong>Roddy Chong<\/strong> \u2013 the mad violinist \u2013 who takes over the center position on the flying stages from Stevens. This opening sequence is dynamic, heavy and sets the stage for what is to follow \u2013 an intricate web of musical and lighting wizardry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOAngel1-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7289\" srcset=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOAngel1-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOAngel1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOAngel1-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOAngel1-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOAngel1.jpg 1169w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>After a fine reading of <strong>Christmas Eve<\/strong> (narrative introduction to the original album) by storyteller <strong>Bryan Hicks<\/strong>, the band flows into <strong>\u201cAn Angel Came Down.\u201d <\/strong>This song represents the beginning of the story \u2013 <strong>Dustin Brayley\u2019s<\/strong> voice captivating as he lays the foundation for the \u201cangels\u201d descent from Heaven as he begins his mission to find hope and meaning within humanity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"842\" src=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOFaithful-1024x842.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7290\" srcset=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOFaithful-1024x842.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOFaithful-300x247.jpg 300w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOFaithful-150x123.jpg 150w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOFaithful-768x632.jpg 768w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOFaithful.jpg 1255w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u201cO Come All Ye Faithful\/O Holy Night\u201d<\/strong> is next up and features a guitar-centric instrumental lead by <strong>Joel Hoekstra<\/strong> (Whitesnake\/Foreigner\/Night Ranger\/Cher). This song really allows Hoekstra to showcase his skillset (mirrored in TSO by the great Al Pitrelli), much to the fans delight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"786\" src=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOFaithful2-1024x786.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7291\" srcset=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOFaithful2-1024x786.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOFaithful2-300x230.jpg 300w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOFaithful2-150x115.jpg 150w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOFaithful2-768x589.jpg 768w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOFaithful2.jpg 1495w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>At this point, the original song order gets shuffled a bit as the \u201cprincess of peace,\u201d <strong>Erika Jerry<\/strong>, has her opportunity to shine on <strong>\u201cPrince of Peace.\u201d <\/strong>Lovers of Gospel music could easily embrace the power and intense expression in Jerry\u2019s rendition of this classic TSO hymn\/ballad. Her use of her arms, hands, body language augment the lyrics in dynamic manner \u2013 perfectly juxtaposing the beauty and power in the declaration of Christ\u2019s birth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"716\" src=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOPeace-1024x716.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7292\" srcset=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOPeace-1024x716.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOPeace-300x210.jpg 300w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOPeace-150x105.jpg 150w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOPeace-768x537.jpg 768w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOPeace-1536x1073.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOPeace.jpg 1584w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u201cFirst Snow\u201d <\/strong>next up dazzles with spectacular lights as <strong>Chris Caffery<\/strong> leads the band in this joyous romp \u2013 like kids running around in celebration of the first snowfall of the season \u2013 and hence endures as one of the more iconic TSO instrumentals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-large-font-size\">&nbsp;<strong>\u201c\u2026peace on earth \u2026 and a little Stolichnaya!\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>I like how the song setlist was changed to put <strong>\u201cA Mad Russian\u2019s Christmas\u201d<\/strong> in tandem with \u201cChristmas Eve\/Sarajevo\u201d because the effect is to create a powerful contrast between what was going on in one part of the world with another as the angel traveled the span of the earth in search of a sense of humanity\u2019s worth. This tandem is no doubt one of the highlights of the show. From Roddy Chong\u2019s relentless energy to Jeff Plate\u2019s drumstick tossing, the song exudes creative energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From the light perspective, its fascinating to watch how the illuminated \u201corbs\u201d that are constantly moving up and down augment the music. Of course, the marching soldiers which appear in the background in the latter portion of the song add to the playful nature of the music.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOSarajevo1-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7293\" srcset=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOSarajevo1-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOSarajevo1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOSarajevo1-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOSarajevo1-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOSarajevo1.jpg 1202w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u201cChristmas Eve\/Sarajevo 12\/24\u201d<\/strong> \u2013 this has always been for me the quintessential TSO song. Not only was it the true \u201ccrossover\u201d Savatage song (originally released in 1995 on<em> Dead Winter Dead<\/em>), it always has and remains emblematic of the kind of passion and experimentation that O\u2019Neill envisioned in his dream for TSO.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Furthermore, this song has always had special meaning for me because although I wasn\u2019t in Bosnia during the war, I was stationed there with the Army in \u201996 and \u201997 and witnessed the aftermath of what is alluded to in the impassioned narrative by Bryan Hicks (below), which during the show served as the prelude to this magnificent tribute.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><em><strong>When he flew over Sarajevo, there were scars upon the land, and there were scars upon the people \u2026and the deepest scars of all \u2013 which to humans are unseen, but the angel could see clearly \u2013 were the scars upon the dreams \u2026 the only decorations here had been awarded for their crimes \u2026 now the angel had heard God speak many times, and he had always paid attention, but this killing of one\u2019s neighbor was something the Lord had never mentioned\u2026 from among the ruins, he once more heard the sound, it was a single cello playing a forgotten Christmas song \u2026 and even on that battlefield, that song somehow belonged \u2026 and as he flew away, the angel did take note, that wherever he found this music played one always could find \u2026 hope.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Every aspect of this song live is perfected to precision \u2013 the haunting cello melody, the smoke, the carol of bells, the \u201corbs,\u201d the powerful piano keys pounding, the flashing laser lights, the drums thundering and crashing, the guitars screaming \u2026 and the endless videos on every screen from center stage to the arena\u2019s ad banner encircling the arena to the mysterious \u201ccuboid\u201d at the rear. Truly one of the highlight numbers in the set and easily my favorite TSO song of all time!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"766\" src=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOSarajevo2-1024x766.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7294\" srcset=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOSarajevo2-1024x766.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOSarajevo2-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOSarajevo2-150x112.jpg 150w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOSarajevo2-768x575.jpg 768w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOSarajevo2.jpg 1364w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>As things settle down from the smoke of Sarajevo \u2026 and after a brief vocal intro from one of the ladies and a bit of instrumental \u201cjigging\u201d from Caffery and Chong, <strong>Caleb Johnson<\/strong> (local Asheville, NC favorite) comes on to perform <strong>\u201cGood King Joy\u201d<\/strong> \u2013 one of the most difficult songs to sing from the debut, in my opinion. It won\u2019t be a surprise to anyone who hears him sing to recall he previously won American Idol (13). The vocal section is half blues\/half Gospel and only a dynamic vocalist with a dynamic range can nail this. I would go so far as to say I prefer Johnson\u2019s performance to that of the original singer \u2026 and that is saying a lot!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is so amazing to me that TSO \u2013 like the angel with the ability to find that humble prayer amidst millions \u2013 finds a way to grab some of the most talented singers in the world with which to ply their trade. <strong>Russell Allen<\/strong> (Symphony X\/Aryeon\/Star One) is no stranger to the stage \u2026 but balladic melodies are typically not his M.O. Thankfully, his abilities reach far beyond aggressive metal and rock opera. His performance on <strong>\u201cOrnament\u201d<\/strong> showcases his passion for flat-out vocal expression. This was truly one of the surprise numbers in the set for me. Beautiful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOOrnament-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7295\" srcset=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOOrnament-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOOrnament-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOOrnament-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOOrnament-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOOrnament.jpg 1448w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>And in equally enthralling manner, <strong>Robin Borneman <\/strong>(Dutch singer\/producer\/storyteller) is featured on the most pivotal song in the set \u2013 the dreams finally turning to actions \u2013 <strong>\u201cOld City Bar.\u201d <\/strong>This magical song represents the denouement \u2013 the moment of truth for the hope of humanity, the moment of revelation for the angel. For from the simplest and most humble places, the greatest gifts can flow\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2026 and as often can happen during the most \u201cexposed\u201d moment of any performance \u2013 the acoustic guitar\/vocalist ballad doesn\u2019t get any more exposed \u2013 something can go wrong with the equipment\/sound. On this night the guitar amp receiver failed (I suppose) and the musical accompaniment distorted to noticeable levels. But in completely professional manner, the musicians paused between verses, the guitar was replaced, and the song flowed on perfectly as if only a small step was missed. (Buy that guitar tech a drink!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOPromises-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7296\" srcset=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOPromises-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOPromises-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOPromises-150x112.jpg 150w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOPromises-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOPromises.jpg 1219w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u201cPromises to Keep\u201d <\/strong>features <strong>Georgia Napolitano<\/strong> (U.K.) as she powerfully proclaims the eternal power of Christmas, \u201cif we don\u2019t forget its meaning.\u201d Simply another astonishing vocal performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOChristmasDay-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7297\" srcset=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOChristmasDay-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOChristmasDay-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOChristmasDay-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOChristmasDay-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOChristmasDay.jpg 1346w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Russell Allen returns to sing of the joyous reunion of the father with his daughter on <strong>\u201cThis Christmas Day.\u201d <\/strong>The entire vocal ensemble \u2013 in true finale fashion \u2013 joins the celebration. And as the girl returned home, so <strong>\u201cAn Angel Returned\u201d<\/strong> to the Lord. Dustin Brayley returns to lead the ensemble in the angel\u2019s exhortation, \u201cKyrie among the nations.\u201d In fairness to the musicians and singers \u2013 this the one song which may be a bit repetitive and less than spectacular from a musical standpoint (the multitude of nation flags on the contrary quite inspiring) \u2013 the song follows the original composition. While a modification may have made for a better aural experience, I respect TSO for keeping things \u201ctrue to the original\u201d with respect for both Paul O\u2019Neill and for what the story here represents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOAngelReturn-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7298\" srcset=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOAngelReturn-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOAngelReturn-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOAngelReturn-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOAngelReturn-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOAngelReturn-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOAngelReturn.jpg 1569w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p>After a brief narrative epilogue by <strong>Bryan Hicks<\/strong>, an interlude\/intermission of sorts ensues as <strong>Chris Caffery<\/strong> proceeds to introduce the singers and gives thanks and praise to the fans AND to those who serve in the military. [Bravo!]<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">&#8230;And Other Stories<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Just when you think the show is over \u2026 <strong>\u201cMozart and Madness\u201d <\/strong>leads off the \u201cother stories\u201d frenzy of songs (basically Act II). This song was originally released on the 1995 Savatage <em>Dead Winter Dead<\/em> album and was later resurrected for TSO\u2019s <em>Night Castle<\/em> album, and features Roddy Chong, once again, on violin. The classical masterpiece \u2013 engulfed visually in plenty of pyro \u2013 is then followed in tandem by <strong>\u201cThe Mountain\u201d<\/strong> (also from <em>Night Castle<\/em>). This heavy number features Caffery\u2019s guitar leads and dance team lead by dance captain <strong>Natalya Rose<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>\u201cJoy of Man\/An Angel\u2019s Song\u201d<\/strong> features newcomer <strong>Gabbie Rae<\/strong> (her first time with TSO, accompanied by the entire vocal ensemble) and she nails it with plenty of power, passion and precision. The proggy outro to the song shreds. The fan favorite <strong>\u201cChristmas Canon Rock\u201d<\/strong> follows and sees the return of Georgia Napolatino accompanied by Natalya, Erika and Gabbie. Hoekstra\u2019s guitar shred juxtaposed with the singers is so vintage TSO.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOCarmina-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOCarmina-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOCarmina-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOCarmina-150x112.jpg 150w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOCarmina-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOCarmina-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOCarmina.jpg 1546w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Caleb Johnson returns to close out this segment of the show as he belts out <strong>\u201cThree Kings &amp; I\u201d<\/strong> (would love to hear this guy sing Led Zep), and then the song just continues to build to the final shred section featuring Joel Hoekstra, Jeff Plate, the keyboardists flanked by the dancing Natalya and Georgia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Chris Caffery<\/strong> next introduces the band, which includes the \u201clocals\u201d string section, and musical director <strong>Derek Wieland<\/strong> (keys). Perhaps the most amazing factoid during the intros is that drummer <strong>Jeff Plate<\/strong> has played every show since the opening show in Philadelphia in 1999! He then moves on to pay tribute to the late Paul O\u2019Neill, band visionary and creator, and introduces the song <strong>\u201cA Little Too Far\u201d<\/strong> (from the Savatage <em>Streets<\/em> album) and that they had never performed this song live prior to the 2021 tour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The song \u2013 an incredible ballad originally written and sung by Jon Oliva \u2013 features <strong>Kayla Reeves<\/strong>, who we had not heard solo until this moment in the show. Oliva is a hard singer to duplicate \u2013 his raspy voice one of a kind \u2013 but Reeves nails the performance with plenty of grit and passion in true Oliva fashion! The song is one of the highlights of the show for me, and likely will be for many a Savatage fan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And so \u2026 if all of this hasn\u2019t been enough to raise your blood pressure yet, the final run of songs figuratively (and somewhat literally) sets the house on fire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The dark gothic choral and visual bliss \u2013 featuring the entire vocal ensemble \u2013 of <strong>\u201cCarmina Burana\u201d<\/strong> gets things started with plenty of smoke and fire. <strong>\u201cWizards in Winter\u201d<\/strong> \u2013 featuring those constantly changing video screens galore \u2013 follows with tons of dancing lights and shooting fire. <strong>Mee Eun Kim<\/strong> and <strong>Derek Wieland<\/strong> share the spotlight here along with the other musicians in this frolicking and rhythmic celebration of light and life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\"><figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOTheFifth-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-7299\" srcset=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOTheFifth-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOTheFifth-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOTheFifth-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOTheFifth-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/12\/TSOTheFifth.jpg 1242w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>And then comes <strong>\u201cRequiem (The Fifth)\u201d<\/strong> to blow everything else out of the water with boiling heavy riffs accompanied by perfectly timed bursts of fire from both the stage and the rotating \u201ccuboid\u201d in the back of the arena. The \u201cmaestro\u2019s masterpiece\u201d seamlessly transitions into the finale \u2013 via the \u201ccarol of bells\u201d \u2013 <strong>\u201cChristmas Eve\/Sarajevo Reprise,\u201d <\/strong>which jams out to the fiery end! Obliterating fantastic!!!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p>After 2 hours and 15 minutes of musical and effects splendor, I was left speechless, wondering how many lives this organization has touched over 25 years of live performance \u2026 and similarly amazed at how one man\u2019s vision became a gift to millions. And as Paul O\u2019Neill himself would humbly reflect \u2013 how one man\u2019s love for humanity (God himself in the flesh) would be light and life to all humanity!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator is-style-default\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center has-large-font-size\"><strong>Obliterating fantastic, reprise! Merry Christmas, indeed!<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Setlist<\/strong> (TSO East)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Welcome (Zak Stevens)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Beethoven (Instrumental)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An Angel Came Down (Dustin Brayley)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>O Come All Ye Faithful\/O Holy Night (Instrumental)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Prince of Peace (Erika Jerry)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>First Snow (Instrumental)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A Mad Russian\u2019s Christmas (Instrumental)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Christmas Eve\/Sarajevo (Instrumental)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Good King Joy (Caleb Johnson)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ornament (Russ Allen)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Old City Bar (Robin Borneman)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Promises to Keep (Georgia Napolitano)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This Christmas Day (Russ Allen)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An Angel Returned (Dustin Brayley)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Vocal Intros<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mozart and Memories\/The Mountain (Instrumental)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Joy of Man\/An Angel\u2019s Share (Gabbie Rae)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Christmas Canon Rock (Georgia Napolitano)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Three Kings and I\/Christmas Jam (Caleb Johnson)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Band Intros<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A Little Too Far (Kayla Reeves)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Carmina Burana (Choral Ensemble)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Wizards in Winter (Instrumental)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Requiem (The Fifth) (Instrumental)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Christmas Eve\/Sarajevo Reprise (Instrumental)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Players (TSO East)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Bryan Hicks \u2013 Storyteller<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Zak Stevens \u2013 Vocals<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dustin Brayley \u2013 Vocals<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Erika Jerry &#8211; Vocals<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Caleb Johnson \u2013 Vocals<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Russell Allen \u2013 Vocals<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Robin Borneman \u2013 Vocals<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Georgia Napolitano \u2013 Vocals<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Gabbie Rae \u2013 Vocals<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Kayla Reeves \u2013 Vocals<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Natalya Rose \u2013 Vocals<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Chris Caffery \u2013 Guitars<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Joel Hoekstra \u2013 Guitars<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tony Dickenson \u2013 Bass<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Derek Wieland \u2013 Keys<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Mee Eun Kim \u2013 Keys<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Roddy Chong \u2013 Strings<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Jeff Plate &#8211; Drums<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.trans-siberian.com\">Trans-Siberian Orchestra<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>TSO West Review <a href=\"https:\/\/heavensmetalmagazine.com\/index.php\/2021\/12\/13\/trans-siberian-orchestra-west-team-concert-review\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HERE<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>TSO East Bon Secours Wellness Arena &#8211; Greenville, SC (December 10th, 2021) The Return of&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":7301,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1025,1020],"tags":[530,340],"class_list":["post-7284","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-live-report","category-review","tag-savatage-d48","tag-trans-siberian-orchestra"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA: Christmas Eve and Other Stories (25th Anniversary) - Heaven&#039;s Metal Magazine<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"TSO is back with their live tour for 2021 which celebrates the 25th anniversary of their debut tour in 1999 for Christmas Eve &amp; Other Stories\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" 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