To express an opinion about this recording, sincerely I would have to do it separately as individuals. Since the instrumentation until the elements involved in this production. I would like to start with Criss Oliva (R.I.P.). I think he had the sense that his composition work for the verses, choruses and solos had the right dose enough to keep me listening. In comparison to his previous works, he did something more purified and inspired. The best he could give us. It's a shame that his talent won't never be shared anymore between us. Steve Wacholz could be considered as one of the most ignored drummers in rock. His percussion had the accurate touch in every transition of the songs, without overcharging them at all. He is someone who many should have as reference to learn and I mean the new drummers. Zachary Stevens was in the right place at right time when he was chosen as the interpreter of the Oliva brothers' lyrics. His vocal work was adequate and accurate on this recording. About Johnny Lee Middleton I could only say he did the job he was hired: being a perfect background without highlighting, daring the egocentrism that many bass players own. Congratulations John! Speaking of the lyrics, I have encountered opinions. First, the metaphores were well worked in the most of the songs. But the thing that catches my attention, it is the correlation between the lyrics. I mean, "Edge Of Thons" with "He Carves His Stone", that speak about lonely people who contemplate the pass of time with anger, pain and resignation; "Lights Out" and "Skraggy's Tomb" they talk about the abuse of alcohol and drugs and their consequences, probably based on anothers or own writter's experiences. Only "Follow Me" is the only one song that has nothing to do with another song. It just speaks about the influence of the TV on us. "Labyrinths" and "Exit Music" mark the transition of the heavy/aggressive state to another sad and dark. And dark are the "Degrees Of Sanity" and "Conversation Piece" lyrics, that I don't really know where they take me. The sadness gives form to "All That I Bleed" and repressed pain in "Damien". And still keeping me into darkness, I continue with "Miles Away" and "Sleep" with the same dose of repressed pain headed to the uncertain. Does have had Criss Oliva that sensation before dying? This could be a debating topic for true fans of Savatage. The recording and mixing were excellent works on engineering. It's a shame they have couldn't repeat that magic on following recordings. "Edge Of Thorns" is a good reference for beginners because it had perfect elements not founded on previous and following recordings. In short, what else could I say of this magnificent work? A 5 of 5. Mikk D'Wolff Panama, August 5th, 2008. For any comments of this review I'm available at: info@puntorock.netRead full review
Savatage is known for three different eras, the first being their melodic heavily-orchestrated metal from 1987 to 1993, the second being their thrash death-metal style from 1980 to 1985, with 1986 showing them falling into the cracks of neither with the mediocre Fight For The Rock. The two different eras are noted two facts, the first being how they progressed with each album and the second being how they sounded like a completely different band. But three events happened in 1993 that forever changed the course of Savatage's career, the first was the release of this album, Edge Of Thorns. A record that saw the band finally being able to mix the two different styles and sounds of each era into one fifty-three minute, thirteen track, album full of passionate cuts and hooks. The second event was the first different vocalist since the bands inception, with the departure of Jon Oliva and the addition of Zachary Stevens. While the two previous albums were heavily saturated in ballads and orchestrated anthems, which focused wholly on keyboards, the band took a step back and saw that they needed an album that proved they still had the power to hang with other 'metal' bands on the scene. The result was this album, that had at least one element suited for every possible person and proved to be a great introduction to the band in regards to a brand new listener. If you liked ballads then you received it, if you like trash then you received it, if you like powerful choruses, great solos and riffs then you definitely receive it, and each of these things were done in top-notch and conviction. All songs are great deserve attention but two songs stand out the most: Follow Me and All That I Bleed. But what of that third event I spoke of earlier? Well it was lethal injection that forever cursed the band from the respect they so greatly deserve, an event that took place in the morning of October 17th, when one of the world's greatest guitar players was stolen from us. Criss Oliva, a true phenomenon, a man, whom like his band, never received the respect he deserved, a powerful guitar player that redefined emotional melodic playing in metal, and helped give birth to so many guitar players in his wake. This album was meant to prove to the world that Criss is one of the best guitar players out there, it unfortunately proved to be his swan song, or requiem, a testament to a career full of awe and wonder. Criss Oliva was a true guitar hero, and may his memory live on forever.Read full review
This is the first Savatage album for me & I was dissapointed. With all that historical thing going around this band, at first I was curious how great this band is & I'm anxious to get my hands on one of their albums, which is very very rare in my country, so I bought it through e-bay, but after hearing a few round of the CD, I come with the conclusion that this band is not as great as most people say. Maybe their other albums (with Alex Scolnick or Al Pitrelli) are better, let me take the risk again & get another one. But as for you, don't buy this one, it has no speciality in it.
Incredible album by a severely underrated band. This was, to my ears, the best of this era. They successfully brought in a new frontman, still had Jon behind the scenes a bit, and we're still blessed by Chris' extraordinary playing.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I highly recommend a must have for all sava fans zak's best and also huge sava fan edge of thorns excellent job zak very appreciated. love both jon and zak's music. sava fan for life.thank you!
I loved this album when I originally bought it on cassette in the early 90's. Finally managed to get it on CD, and it's still just as solid as I'd remembered. The tragic passing of guitarist Cris Oliva adds a strong sentimental note to an excellent recording.
i got almost all the savatage cds this one is one of the best i have heard i wish some day they could get some the guys togeather again for some small shows
This is a metal masterpiece, criss oliva's last unfortunately, definitely however music by the gods, worth buying. Displays great musicianship and of course amazing shredding by oliva.
Great Melo-Dramatic Metal, a bit pompous at times, but int his release they were still Metal, which brings a smile to my sarcastic old fart face!
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