Evanescence
Sanctuary
Sony Music
They may not be prolific, six releases in 23 years is pedestrian at best, but Evanescence can never be accused of lacking in the quality department. They set the bar ridiculously high with the debut ‘Fallen’ and have in some ways returned to what made that record so highly regarded with latest outing ‘Sanctuary’. This it has to be said is also a set of songs very firmly anchored in the now, not the past. There’s an earthy heaviness to much of the writing which reinforces those gothic tones often associated with the band. This is very much a rock album too, it has guitars to the fore and pounding beats and rhythms. The title track in particular is a belter with a lovely synth and spoken word intro. ‘How Do I Heal’ and ‘Forever Without You’ are typically moving sorrowful ballads. Right throughout Amy Lee’s voice is utterly majestic. The way she makes full use of her range and articulates the lyrics is quite stunning. It’s quite amazing how she has retained so consistently the ability to sing at the highest of levels for over three decades in the band. Here she excels. ‘Sanctuary’ is a statement record that has more than enough firepower to become a classic and fan favourite.
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Review by Gary Trueman