I have been an Evanescence fan for decades but never got a chance to see them in concert until this past weekend at the Kia Forum. We arrived just late enough to miss the two opening acts and settled into our seats in time for Evanescence to take the stage at 9:20.
Evanescence opened with “Sanctuary” (the eponymous song for their new album). The stage set was stark but striking and the accompanying video production slickly set the mood for the music. The Kia Forum again set the standard for sound reinforcement with thundering base and crisp treble. There was plenty of volume but not so much as to hurt my ears. The stage production also included plenty of pyrotechnics.
Amy Lee was in fine voice that was simultaneously evocative and haunting. She worked the whole stage as they went on to perform “Afterlife” and “Going Under.” Finally, after five songs, a grand piano rose up from under the stage and Lee sat down to play and sing “Lithium.” After a couple songs at the piano, it evanesced back into the stage. A few songs later, a keyboard rose up from under the stage for “Call Me When You’re Sober.”
The grand piano made an appearance again when Skylar Grey joined Lee on stage for a duet rendition of “Forever Without You.” Grey then left the stage but the piano remained and the rest of the band returned for “Bring Me To Life.” They went on to play a few more songs, including “Imaginary” and “Who Will You Follow,” among others. The grand piano returned for Lee to begin performing “My Immortal” solo, then it dropped back into the stage for the rest of the band to join Lee halfway through.
After a twenty song set, Evanescence closed the show with “Wide Open Heart.” They took their bows and left the stage with no encore at 11:00. But before ending this review, I should make an honorable mention of the rhythm section. Will Hunt looked like he wanted to beat the skins off his drum kit and Emma Anzai is a great addition on bass. Her background vocals melded well with Lee’s and her driving beat kept the music moving.
Lee’s voice remained powerful, clear, and on key throughout the show without showing any sign of tiring. The entire band was well rehearsed and polished. Considering their strong showing on this tour, Evanescence will not be evanescing anytime soon.
The Progressive Zone 