14 years on from the smash debut album ‘Fallen,’ Evanescence release ‘Synthesis,’ an orchestral rework of some of their songs. Although Evanescence is not one to shy away from dramatic music this album takes their musical drama to whole new levels.
This album takes their musical drama to whole new levels
The album starts with 2 minutes of piano and strings; it’s hard to tell if you’re listening to a very theatrical opening interlude or a Chopin masterpiece. However, once lead singer Amy Lee starts singing we are reminded of all the reasons this band has a place in the heart of so many people. This does not feel like an album it feels like a musical, and Lee is the star.
The album begins with ‘Never Go Back’, and Lee sounds almost like an opera singer. However, despite her incredible vocals, for those who are not die-hard Evanescence fans, listening to much of this album can feel a bit mundane, and not at all like the Gothic rockers that we love. The use of instruments is interesting and the string solo in ‘Hi-Lo’ is a stand out moment musically. But Lee’s vocals just fit in perfectly and certainly stand out above the music.
If it weren't for Lee's incredibly breathtaking vocals it would be a little far-fetched giving this album much praise at all
If it weren’t for Amy Lee’s incredibly breath-taking vocals it would be a little far-fetched giving this album much praise at all. The stand out moment for a fan of debut album ‘Fallen’ is the rework of ‘Bring Me to Life’ which throws you right back in time.
Although this is an interesting rework of some of Evanescence’s best songs it is not something that is easy to listen to and often feels boring. This is clearly a very talented band but this is not a record many will remember them for producing.