A dual CD/matching DVD compilation from the 2008 star-studded European dates (Wacken and Czech Masters Of Rock festival) from the side-project of Edguy frontman/comedian Tobias Sammet, decked in sunglasses, cowboy hat & floor length duster to start the show. As such, nothing from the staggered 2010 releases, "Angel Of Babylon"/"Wicked Symphony" is aired. Need to possess a keen ear if you’re going to differentiate between the parade of guest musicians/singers onstage. The DVD makes it easier and also includes a second, documentary/tour travelogue disc (Sammet’s moment to shine, humorously), with promo videos to boot.

On the first audio portion (ten songs, approx. 65 minutes), the band opens with the initial pair off "The Scarecrow", including Jorn Lande’s rocking version of the title track. They return to said album, for ‘Shelter From The Rain’ (w/ Andre Matos) after forays into ‘The Metal Opera’ (‘Prelude’/’Reach Out For The Light’, plus the piano ballad from ‘Inside’ and ‘No Return’, both from the Czech Republic), surrounded by a trio of “Lost In Space” material (including the Broadway revue styled ‘The Story Ain’t Over’, with female voice courtesy of well traveled Amanda Sommerville). ‘Reach Out...’ isn’t really too removed from Sammet’s day-job, a spirited, high-pitched vocal romp that Avantasia has moved away from in the intervening decade (hard to believe it dawned as the new millennium started). As with most festivals, the massive crowds are audible, singing along and most of Tobias’ instructions are in German (at least at Wacken). "I know I’m a little short, but can you see me?" Can remember the explosion in the crowd when they finally launched into their signature track, which is found on disc #2, alongside the Lande-Sammet dueling frontman of ‘Serpent In Paradise’. ‘Promised Land’ closes out the Wacken set, although the party is really just beginning, as the encore looks like a Cecil B. DeMille cast of thousands. Former Scorpions guitarist Uli Jon Roth adds his touch to ‘The Toy Master’. Check out the humanity for the nearly 18 minute ‘Sign Of The Cross’/ ‘The Seven Angels’ medley/finale!

This should do well in the North American market, where there is but ONE chance of seeing the Avantasia experience live, ProgPower USA. Until that happens, enjoy the vicarious thrill.