Evanescence at the O2 Arena

American goth rock band Evanescence headlined at the O2 last night, ably supported by Within Temptation, whose ethereal blend of classical gothic and heavy metal is a smouldering start to the evening. The Dutch symphonic support group (formed in 1996) treat the venue to an artistic, theatrical and meaningfully political show, featuring more special effects and pomp than the headliners. Highlights include shooting fire, a large, staring, otherworldly head, and the lead vocalist dressed in a stunning red dress flying above the stage on a floating swing against the backdrop of the aurora borealis.

As the house lights go down and a heavy beat starts, the audience shriek with excitement – not unusual for a large gig, particularly for a band like Evanescence with such dedicated fans, but there is also an added sense of relief and exhilaration, because they have waited three years and survived a global pandemic to make it to this show. It’s wonderful to see gothic fashion having a comeback in the audience; tonight feels reminiscent of the early 00s but with the added trauma of these last few years.

This dramatically emotional, classic goth metal rock band soothed the souls of thousands of troubled teenagers of the era, known for their eclectic blend of musical styles and deep subject matter. Lead singer and the group’s one consistent member Amy Lee’s strong, otherworldly voice and beautifully gothic outfits helped propel the idea that women could have a place in metal. Mixing classical with heavy metal and goth with Christianity, all underlaid with raw, relatable and heart-wrenching emotion, Evanescence really is a band like no other.

Lee brings as much passion to her performance as if it was still 2003. Her strong, multi-faceted voice is sometimes drowned out by the heavy metal music, but it still comes together beautifully to create a powerful, sad and yet elated feeling. She doesn’t just sing: she really takes the music into her whole body and moves about the stage as a connected entity. 

Visually, this is a pared-back performance. A triangle featuring abstract video imagery – some of it not a million miles away from the generated videos on Windows Music Player, but Evanescence don’t need many extra props as its members – particularly their frontwoman – are mesmerising enough already. Lee is familiar with the audience whilst keeping the focus on the music. She seems aware of the impact of her songs, but in a way that feels shared rather than conceited. Known for their juxtaposition of classical instruments with heavy metal sounds, songs like Imaginary and the ending of My Immortal highlight this impressive musical range.

Decades-long fans of the band may like more of the older hits, as the reaction to Call Me When You’re Sober, My Immortal and Going Under suggests, but this gig is an even distribution of newer releases and the staples that made Evanescence famous. Ultimately, this night is a dream come true for formerly misunderstood teenagers from 2006, dressed in black and drowning in big emotions.

Sophia Moss

For further information and future events visit Evanescence’s website here.

Watch the video for the single Call Me When You’re Sober here: