Few people in rock music have the pipes of Evanescence’s Amy Lee. Her soulful tone and distinguished sound are as identifiable as they are unique. Belting out tunes like “Never Go Back” and “Lacrymosa” at the opening of her performance at the MGM National Harbor last Tuesday night, it was clear she was not only there to sing—she came to rock.
Performing with a 20 piece orchestra to reflect the direction of the band’s forthcoming album Synthesis, the show was far from a classical recital and leaned more toward the operatic. As usual Lee’s vocals were unearthly and soared beautifully above the mix. Fan favorites like “My Heart Is Broken,” “Bring Me To Life,” along with the more reflective “My Immortal” and “The In-Between” spanned the band’s catalog through several line-up changes and Amy Lee’s own solo projects.
Lee was quoted in 2013 saying, “I am Evanescence. I am the only original member. I have basically hired the band. Evanescence has become me. It is mine and it’s exactly how I want it to be.” (And rightfully so.) Their current line-up includes Tim McCord on bass guitar, Will Hunt on drums, and guitarists Jen Majura and Troy McLawhorn. Whatever change in personal the band may have undergone through its various incarnations, Lee’s vocals are the bedrock for their loyal fanbase.
Evanescence is touring to promote the release of Synthesis, which arrives in stores on November 10th. The album is the band’s first release since 2011 and includes reimagined versions of previous material set to orchestral arrangements as well as two new songs. Evanescence will continue westward across the US and into Canada come February. The band then travels to Australia and later stops throughout Europe into the Spring of 2018.
SETLIST
Overture
Never Go Back
Lacrymose
End of the Dream
My Heart Is Broken
Lithium
Bring Me to Life
Unraveling
Imaginary
Secret Door
Hi-Lo
Lost in Paradise
Your Star
My Immortal
The In-Between
Imperfection
ENCORE
Speak to Me
Good Enough
Swimming Home
