Evanescence made their way to London on a sold out date of the UK tour in support of their fourth studio album “Synthesis” on 31st March 2018. An evening many fans old and new had been waiting for finally arrived at London’s Royal Festival Hall to experience a re-imagining of their best-loved songs with the spotlight of some live orchestra and electronics combined with Amy Lee’s virtuoso piano and voice. This was bound to be an unforgettable evening for rock fans as well as classical music fans.
The symphonic orchestra opening for Evanescence played phenomenally as directed by conductor Susie Benchasil Seiter who entered the stage with a wide smile to loud applauding crowd. The classical ensemble performed a cover of Mozart’s very famous masterpiece “La Chasse” and “Moonlight Montana” (Beethoven) beautifully complemented by a pianist. The audience neatly applauded at the end of each music piece. The 25-minute set ended with “Together Again” and many would agree it ended too soon. The alluring work by the orchestra enchanted the crowd who were certainly ready for what was to come next.
The lights dimmed, the crowd roared with cheer and that meant it was time for the two-time Grammy-award winning Evanescence to take the stage. Lead singer Amy Lee made her entrance in a lavish forest green gown taking her position centre stage on the grand piano and went straight into the intro of “Overture” and smoothly transitioned into “Never Go Back.” Four songs in and the set reached new heights with Lee’s stunning voice that had developed new nuances perfectly fitting for the classical arrangement. Some may suggest this compensated for the loss of the heavy guitars that I once remember from the 90’s. Highlights include the dramatic yet sensational performance of the classic “Bring Me To Life” the usually heavy riffing was toned down with the addition of the orchestral elements went down immensely together with a hypnotic light show which captivated the crowd. It was like a dream. The transformation of “My Heart Is Broken” with the orchestra was met with loud clapping and cheering. Nevertheless, the heavy sound wasn’t completely lost as drummer Will Hunt demonstrated on his electronic drum kit throwing out fat beats and thunderous jack hammer kick drumming.
The audience showed immense affection for Lee as they shouted “we love you” in between songs and piano interludes, and in return she dedicated the old fan favourite “My Immortal” to the fans which pumped them further. Two new songs “Imperfection,” and “Speak To Me” performed solo by Lee and the rest of the band joined her on stage for the final song “Swimming Home” which formed part of the encore songs that I felt was rushed. While Lee was the focal point of the band she was quick to acknowledge the other members of the her band bassist Tim McCord, guitarists Troy McLawhorn and Jen Majura, and of course drummer Hunt for their contributions.
Overall, the orchestra was made up of freelance musicians therefore cannot be named, however they played wonderfully with their scrupulously precise and squeaky-clean covers. The powerful performance by Evanescence was perfectly executed, but the real atmosphere came from the orchestra and the evening undoubtedly belonged to Amy Lee stunned the crowd with her overwhelming vocal ability and stage presence. With a heavy haze and exhilarating light displays used throughout the show featuring electronics and a large classical ensemble this was one memorable journey and an unmissable show as Evanescence continue touring the UK on the Synthesis Tour.
