For me, Myrath and Vanden Plas were my two favorites.
But very strong honorable mentions are Portnoy's Shattered Fortress, Orphaned Land, Metal Church, Angel Dust, and even (gasp) Seven Spires.
Anubis Gate and Daydream XI - just got both. Love the AG, but the Daydream XI is sick. I mean I'm really loving that disc! Can't wait to see them next week! :)
Article posted on Billboard magazine's website says that it's now a group effort, but as far as I can tell that Al Pitrelli is the guy calling the shots now.
http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/rock/7940866/trans-siberian-orchestra-future-plans
Dream Theater brings it's 25th anniversary tour to North America this fall.
http://www.dreamtheater.net/news/images-words-beyond-tour-dates-north-america-182156
The two bands I'm really looking forward to are Myrath and Vanden Plas! (Of course I'm rather biased since I'm a co-sponsor for both!) ;)
Other bands I'm looking forward to are Distorted Harmony, Pain, Snowy Shaw, Angel Dust and Metal Church.
Love this list as always. Looking for new music to buy and this list really helps! (It's also great for Christmas lists!)
My favorite this year was Myrath's "Legacy". Nothing so far in 2016 has topped that. :)
Bought it off of eMusic a couple of days ago, will listen to it this weekend. Listened to a couple of songs off of YouTube already and love what I heard. :)