Evanescence – Evanescence (2011)
Artist: Evanescence
Album: Evanescence
Released: October 7, 2011
Label: Wind-up Records
Genre: Alternative metal, hard rock, symphonic rock, electronic rock
Length: 43:29
Producer: Nick Raskulinecz
Overview
Evanescence is the third studio album and first self-titled release by the band. Arriving five years after The Open Door, the album marked a new era—introducing a refreshed lineup and a heavier, more electronic-influenced sound.
Initially conceived as a more experimental electronic project by Amy Lee, the record ultimately evolved into a full-band rock album under producer Nick Raskulinecz (known for his work with Foo Fighters and Deftones). The result blends aggressive guitars, layered electronics, orchestral textures, and powerful vocal performances.
The self-titled name reflects the band’s rebirth and new creative dynamic.
Album Credits
Band Members
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Amy Lee – lead vocals, piano, keyboards, harp
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Terry Balsamo – guitars
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Tim McCord – bass
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Troy McLawhorn – guitars
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Will Hunt – drums
Production
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Producer: Nick Raskulinecz
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Mixing: Randy Staub
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Mastering: Ted Jensen
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Label: Wind-up Records
Tracklist
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What You Want
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Made of Stone
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The Change
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My Heart Is Broken
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The Other Side
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Erase This
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Lost in Paradise
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Sick
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End of the Dream
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Oceans
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Never Go Back
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Swimming Home
(Deluxe editions included bonus tracks such as New Way to Bleed and Say You Will.)
Commercial Performance (Sales & Chart Success)
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Debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200
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Sold approximately 127,000 copies in its first week (U.S.)
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Reached Top 10 in multiple countries
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Certified Gold in several territories
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Sold over 1 million copies worldwide
Though sales were more modest compared to the band’s earlier releases, the album reaffirmed their global fanbase.
Awards & Recognition
While the album did not receive Grammy wins like Fallen, it earned:
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Nominations at rock and alternative music awards
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Strong placement on year-end rock charts
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Critical recognition for its heavier direction and modern production
Musical Direction & Themes
This album differs from its predecessors by:
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Incorporating more electronic programming and industrial textures
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Featuring tighter, riff-driven guitar work
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Reducing orchestral dominance compared to The Open Door
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Exploring themes of empowerment, survival, identity, and loss
Songs like “What You Want” present an energetic, anthemic opener, while “My Heart Is Broken” reflects Amy Lee’s emotional songwriting style.
“Lost in Paradise” stands out as a vulnerable piano-driven ballad and fan favorite.
The closing track “Swimming Home” leans into ambient electronic elements, reflecting the album’s experimental origins.
Fun Facts & Trivia
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The album was originally planned as a more electronic solo-inspired project before becoming a full Evanescence record.
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“My Heart Is Broken” was inspired by stories of human trafficking victims.
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“Never Go Back” references the 2011 Japanese tsunami.
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Producer Nick Raskulinecz encouraged the band to write and rehearse together as a unit rather than building songs digitally.
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It was the band’s last album released under Wind-up Records.
Did You Know?
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The album’s self-titled name symbolizes a “reset” for the band.
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It marked the first album to feature Troy McLawhorn as a full studio member.
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Some songs were written years before the album’s official recording sessions.
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Amy Lee described the process as collaborative and band-focused compared to the previous record.
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The band toured extensively worldwide following its release, including festival headlining slots.
Critical Reception
Critics praised:
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The heavier, cohesive band dynamic
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Amy Lee’s vocal strength and control
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The modern production style
Some reviewers felt it lacked the dramatic orchestral flair of The Open Door, but many appreciated its streamlined rock approach.
Album Rating
8/10
Evanescence (2011) represents a rebirth—heavier, more collaborative, and more modern. While it may not carry the cultural shockwave of Fallen, it proves the band’s staying power and evolution in the 2010s rock landscape.
Download Evanescence Albums from Amazon Music
More Albums:
Evanescence - The Open Door (2006)
Evanescence - Synthesis (2017)
