Savatage (/ˈsævətɑːʒ/) is an American heavy metal band formed in 1979 in Tarpon Springs, Florida by brothers Jon and Criss Oliva. The band initially performed under the name Avatar, but changed it shortly before the release of their debut album "Sirens" (1983) due to naming conflicts with other acts. The new name, Savatage, was created by combining elements of “savage” and “Avatar”. The early lineup included Steve “Doc” Wacholz on drums, who became a long-term member and was nicknamed “Doctor Hardware Killdrums” for his aggressive playing style. Early bassist Keith Collins joined in 1981, and the band built a local following in Florida before signing with Atlantic Records in the mid-1980s. Their early releases, "Sirens" (1983) and the EP "The Dungeons Are Calling" (1984), were issued on Par Records. After signing with Atlantic Records, they released "Power of the Night" (1985), produced by Max Norman. Although critically noticed, it did not meet commercial expectations. The follow-up "Fight for the Rock" (1986) was a label-driven attempt at a more commercial sound and included cover songs, which the band later disowned. During this period, they toured with acts including Metallica, Kiss, and Motörhead. Internal dissatisfaction and creative pressure led to tensions within the band, and bassist Keith Collins left, being replaced by Johnny Lee Middleton, who became a long-term member. After nearly disbanding, Savatage regrouped and released "Hall of the Mountain King" (1987),