Trans-Siberian Orchestra conjures up “The Ghosts Of Christmas Eve” for an awestruck Allstate Arena
Some shows have proven to be so popular in multiple formats that no matter how many times they’re rejuvenated and recreated, demand remains through the roof.
Such is the case of “The Ghosts Of Christmas Eve – The Best Of TSO & More” Tour, which takes its central theme from the 1999 Trans-Siberian Orchestra TV special turned DVD, compilation and colossal concert that returned to the Allstate Arena for two jam-packed performances.
As far as the matinee was concerned, the original story and track listing may have been the same, but with a production pumped up on super steroids, which earned an awestruck reaction from the crowd, who original guitarist Al Pitrelli lovingly teased for playing hooky from work.
The former shredder for Alice Cooper, Asia, Megadeth and Savatage, where he met late TSO producer, composer and lyricist Paul O’Neill, was just one of the countless world-class players in the enormous ensemble, whose intricate symphonic rock arrangements speak for themselves, but commanded exponential attention when set to lasers and explosions.
Following a few general and festive warms-ups, the main program got underway and featured several of the group’s massive moments, including “Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24,” “Christmas Canon Rock,” “First Snow” (as bubbly flakes rained down) and “This Christmas Day,” all tied together through dramatic narration.Perhaps more important than a single selection was the inspiring tale of redemption, reminding fans of any age it’s never too late to right a wrong or reconcile with a loved one, which are lessons suitable for any season, but especially appropriate around the holidays.
The back half focused on assorted album tracks but was no less effective, including a progressive glimpse into O’Neill’s last-ever writing session, and a little later, Savatage’s “Not What You See” as a full-blown dedication, plus “A Mad Russian’s Christmas,” “Wizards In Winter” and others.
The nearly-two-and-a-half undertaking was also elevated by the hard rocker “Madness Of Men,” with visions of beasts who could’ve easily climbed out of “Stranger Things,” the classical masterpiece “Requiem (The Fifth),” and ultimately, a reprise of “Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24.”For the latter, it was a sensory overload experience unlike anything ever seen, from lights and video panels going berserk, to hydraulics elevating the musicians over the audience and even a platform shooting fireballs towards the very back of the venue as the heavy classic counted down to the most wonderful time of the year with the maximum impact imaginable.
For additional information on Trans-Siberian Orchestra, visit Trans-Siberian.com.
For a list of upcoming Live Nation concerts, visit LiveNation.com.
Upcoming concert highlights at the Allstate Arena include Carin Leon (Jan. 27); Marc Anthony (Feb. 24); Los Angeles Azules (Mar. 25); Los Temerarios (Mar. 30-31); Ana Gabriel (Apr. 22); Banda MS and Eden Munez (Apr. 28); Anuel AA (May 18) and Andrea Bocelli (May 20). For additional details, visit Rosemont.com/Allstate/.