Evanescence – S/T

For the longest time, Evanescence was a band that people were almost ashamed to admit they were fans of. Their music was a bit overly dramatic and melancholy and their appearance mirrored it. Yet, through the many transformations of the band, Evanescence has definitely grown up into a more mature band complete with a more reformed sound that remains equally heartfelt. Amy Lee is back for the band’s third album and has proven that you should never let go of the dream, only work harder to achieve it.

Let’s face it, the « band » has always been more about Amy Lee as an outstanding vocalist. However, this album showcases Evanescence as more of a band. A cohesive entity that is striving to make a name for itself as an actual group of musicians. Not only is it evident in the fact that their album is self-titled but more so in the musical architecture of their new sound. Their opening anthem, What You Want, is a commandeering song about cutting free of the ties of your past, rising above all of the negative that once consumed you, and feeling the freedom to do whatever it is that you once felt restricted to do. It’s probably the most pop-like track of the lot yet its catchy rhythm makes it the perfect opener for the album. Made of Stone follows and is equally enthralling of a song about standing up for yourself. The former brooding sound rears its head once again in the track Sick, something that could have easily fit into their previous release. It’s almost reminiscent of White Pony-era Deftones mixed with the female vocal vibe of Christina Scabbia.

It’s no secret that Amy Lee has several skeletons in her black clothing-filled closet. The Other Side and Lost in Paradise reveal her extremely sentimental side. They both croon about the sister she lost early in her life and her occasional longing to join her at the end of all things. Yet the sorrow she feels has never hindered her from rising above all the obstacles facing her. As she asks in End of the Dream, « as much as it hurts, ain’t it wonderful to feel? » It is evident that Amy has learned to turn the pain into motivation and has made it a mission to promulgate that notion to her fans in between soaring arias and chugging guitars.

For faithful followers of the band, this album surely will not disappoint and for those whom were quick to shrug them off in the past should definitely reconsider their previous assumptions of their music.

Tracklist :

1. What You Want
2. Made Of Stone
3. The Change
4. My Heart Is Broken
5. The Other Side
6. Erase This
7. Lost In Paradise
8. Sick
9. End Of The Dream
10. Oceans
11. Never Go Back
12. Swimming Home

Samantha