Evanescence

Evanescence is an alternative rock and metal group from Little Rock, United States, formed in 1995 by singer and pianist Amy Lee and guitarist Ben Moody. The band’s sound is associated with gothic rock, gothic metal, alternative metal, heavy metal and piano rock. It has recorded for Wind-up, BMG and Concord Music Group.

Early releases and breakthrough

Before its first major-label release, the band records private material and limited-run EPs and demos, including the self-titled Evanescence EP, Sound Asleep (also known as the Whisper EP) and the demo album Origin. Songs from these early recordings later appear in reworked form on the debut album Fallen. The group chooses its name after experimenting with other options; the word refers to disappearance or fading away.

After signing to Wind-up Records, Evanescence releases Fallen in 2003. The album sells more than 15 million copies worldwide and brings the band major international recognition. Its single “Bring Me to Life”, known widely through the Daredevil soundtrack, helps the group win two Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist and Best Hard Rock Performance.

Line-up changes and later albums

Ben Moody leaves in 2003. Terry Balsamo joins on guitar, and former session members William Boyd, John LeCompt and Rocky Gray become full-time members. David Hodges leaves in 2002. The band later includes Tim McCord on bass, with Will Hunt and Troy McLawhorn appearing as session members, and Jen Majura and Emma Anzai also listed among its members.

Evanescence releases its live album Anywhere But Home in 2004; it sells more than one million copies worldwide. The second studio album, The Open Door, follows in 2006 and sells more than five million copies. Evanescence, the third studio album, appears in 2011 and later receives a deluxe edition with four extra tracks and an accompanying DVD. The compilation Lost Whispers is released in 2016 and brings together B-sides and two new recordings, including a new version of “Even in Death”. The fourth studio album, Synthesis, follows in 2017. The band’s discography also includes The Bitter Truth and Sanctuary.

Band history and membership

Lee and Moody meet in 1994 at a youth camp in Little Rock. Their early songs include “Solitude” and “Give Unto Me”, written by Lee, and “Understanding” and “My Immortal”, written by Moody. Local radio airplay builds interest in the band before it begins regular live performances. Lee later marries Josh Hartzler, and she says songs including “Good Enough” and “Bring Me to Life” are inspired by him.

The group continues with changing personnel over the years, moving from its original line-up through several former and current members while maintaining Amy Lee as its central figure on vocals, piano and keyboards.