For over twenty years Evanescence has combined the beauty and grace of Amy Lee on vocals and behind the piano with hard guitar riffs and banging percussion, and have built a rabid fan base all over the world. This fall Evanescence released their new album Synthesis, A reimagining of their three previous albums plus a few new tracks. Synthesis takes the music of Evanescence and combined it with a full orchestra arrangement as well as some electronica elements. On December 11th, 2017, Evanescence brought the Synthesis tour to the Kansas City Music hall. Staring out the night was a set by the orchestra, thirty minutes of classical music that rained down on the diverse crowd that was in attendance. Yes, it was an interesting site seeing the melting pot of attendees. People were dressed in everything from gowns and suits to goth attire and a few sleeveless metal tees’. It honestly showed how great music is at bringing everyone together from all walks of life.
As the lights dimmed for the second time and the orchestra along with the band menders of Evanescence took to the stage the crowd cheered with excitement. When Amy Lee entered from stage left and made her way to the piano Kansas City Music hall erupted in applause. It was an amazing night for all the scenes as the concept of the Synthesis album translated to a thing of beauty on the stage. The sounds of Amy Lee’s voice paired with the orchestra over the top of the new electronica arrangements of Evanescence original music was an audio orgasm for the ears. Songs like “Bring Me to Life” and “My Mortal” had new life pumped into them and it was like hearing them all over again for the first time. Visually, it was more than just the stunning Amy Lee adorned in a beautiful red and black full-length gown. It was an array of lights and movements from the stage that most concert growers do not experience at a rock show. The conductor’s movements were answered by the flowing movements of the strings section and the subtle sounds of the brass. One thing that held true to form for any rock show was Will hunt on the drums. Mr Hunt was a show in himself as he played the electronic kit belting out the sounds that helped make the Synthesis concept what is becoming to be. If his sticks were not striking ahead or symbol they were flying through the air or twirling between his fingers. This was a night like no other and one that I will never forget, the Synthesis tour is easily in my top five concert experiences of 2017.
Photos by Amber Miller, Heavy Magazine photojournalist
Review by Ace Sims, Heavy Magazine journalist
