Yeah I know Ayreon - Arjen is a great musician but I think I like his other projects more... specifically The Gentle Storm with Anneke van Giersbergen.
For metal operas I stay with Avantasia
As for Elvellon... yeah, the Nightwish description probably isn't fair, but I was definitely thinking more Angels Fall First era, back when they were more understated.
Meanwhile I'm hooked (again) on Samsara Blues Experiment - a German psychedelic/stoner band that honestly blows my brain. Of all the recent "retro" bands, they are one that just seems so... authentic. Dunno what it is but I really like it.