- Originality
- Vocals
- Overall Impact
- Production
- Sound
ARTIST: Evanescence
TITLE: Evanescence (Self-Titled)
YEAR: 2011
LABEL: Wind-Up Records
Author: Sam Yakou
Evanescence have been big players in the alt-goth-chamber-heavy rock genres they move between. This is remarkable when you consider their name recognition is built upon the success of two albums; Fallen, their 2003 debut, and 2006’s The Open Door. In the five years since they’ve released new music the band has undergone plenty of infighting, lineup changes and turmoil. Singer and bandleader Amy Lee, the cover girl for Revolver’s hottest chicks of hard rock issue, has promised a more interesting, thematic album that better encompasses what Evanescence is.
The self-titled album begins with lead single What You Want, a heavier and melodic mini-anthem. What follows is a myriad of sounds within the Lee’s preferred goth spectrum. Varying from guitar-driven riffs and solid rock drumming to underlying piano interludes and synthesizer passages. Lee’s ethereal and undeniably powerful vocals used more as a lead instrument, mixed in with the band instead of over the top.
The tracks are heavily produced and very layered, giving the album a very lush, poppy feel. The sound is encompassing and dramatic without falling into the trap of sounding like a movie score or electronica. Atmospheric strings, synths and piano allow tracks to breathe while Lee’s lyrics about freedom, inner strength and heartbreak reflect the light and shade theme of the album.
Evanescence, the band, can be polarizing in the metal community. While undeniably talented and catchy, the music doesn’t exactly satisfy metal fans while being too intense for the rock crowd. Evanescence are still in the early stages of their recorded work. They have a huge fan base that should only expand with this record. While still overwhelmingly the creation of songstress Lee, the record is a more cohesive work than their previous efforts.
Bottom line: Evanescence is a well-made, atmospheric album that blends pop sensibilities and heavy rock arrangements. It’s enjoyable, if not particularly heavy. Recommended.
