It was all about the music in Maplewood, New Jersey, when the backyard garden of Here's 2 The Arts Café was transformed into a summer's night delight for music lovers. Packed to capacity with an all-ages crowd, the concert was under darkening skies as tabletop candles flickered and patrons filled the venue's lawn chairs.

Headlining the evening's entertainment was the stunning and innovative Alexander Kariotis and the Rock Opera Orchestra. Tenor Alexander Kariotis astounded the audience with a unique mix of rock and opera, backed up by his 9-piece band.

Backed not only by his band, Kariotis utilizes a screen behind the stage, upon which is projected images, words, and translations of opera lyrics. The Rock Opera Orchestra lit up the night with amazing entertainment that included the bittersweet "Lennon in Heaven," English-Italian selections such as Nessun Dorma, and a powerful cover of "The Flame," a Cheap Trick '80s hit dedicated to Alex's late brother.

Candles glowed on-screen, and two candles placed on the stage were tributes to Alex' late brother, as well as to hi bassist mother, who'd passed away only a week before the performance.

Moving the audience to tears and lighters held to the sky, the Cheap Trick cover was a distinctive addition to a set list that also included the first act aria from "Tosca" and a rendition of Nat King Cole's "Answer Me My Love."

The finale was the rousing "Recitar . . . Vesti La Giubba," belted out by Alexander in a white satin clown suit. Bringing the enthusiastic audience to a standing ovation, the Italian aria sections blended seamlessly with the rock and roll beats.

Alexander Kariotis and the Rock Opera Orchestras' sound is flawless, and the delivery tight. The group has a definite chemistry, and Alexander Kariotis' magnetic charisma connects him effortlessly to the crowd. With a stage presence that commands, and a confidence stemming from years of study and experience, the singer and his musicians are sure to go far. Luckily, the rain held off for the evening, and the music lit up the night.