Evanescence (CD) Evanescence

It's been a long five years since we've heard anything from American rockers Evanescence. But they're back with a bang with their third, eponymous studio album.

Lead singer Amy Lee has said she wanted the new record to focus on the band rather than herself - hence the album name. The idea is also reflected in the music, which stresses a band sound, with heavy guitar riffs and drums on almost every track.

The tone is set in opener What You Want. It's a pacy, hard-hitting track designed to remind people - and maybe themselves - who they are, with Lee repeatedly asking, 'Hello, hello remember me?'. Made of Stone and The Other Side are other heavier songs worth a listen.

Lee's vocals are at their best on ballads that incorporate classical elements like piano and strings. These instruments, combined with her vocals and lyrics of failed relationships and missing loves, create a haunting, gothic aura.

Lost in Paradise is reminiscent of their 2003 hit My Immortal. It begins with Lee singing to a piano, then the band joins, upping the tempo and adding to the angst of being lost.

Lee and co have delivered on their promise of a 'better, stronger and more interesting' album. Evanescence is a gratifying record that'll have you head-banging before you know it.