Evanescence – Synthesis (2017)
Artist: Evanescence
Album: Synthesis
Released: November 10, 2017
Label: BMG
Genre: Symphonic rock, orchestral rock, electronic
Length: 56:00
Producer: Will Hunt, David Campbell, Amy Lee
Overview
Synthesis is Evanescence’s fourth studio album and a bold reinvention of their catalog. Rather than delivering a traditional rock record, the band reimagined many of their classic songs with full orchestra arrangements, electronic programming, and cinematic production.
Recorded with a live orchestra conducted and arranged by David Campbell, the album strips away most heavy guitars and replaces them with sweeping strings, dramatic percussion, and layered electronic textures. It also features two new songs: “Imperfection” and “Hi-Lo.”
Amy Lee described Synthesis as a passion project—an opportunity to reinterpret their music in a more cinematic, emotional, and orchestral way.
Album Credits
Band Members
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Amy Lee – lead vocals, piano, keyboards
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Troy McLawhorn – guitar (minimal on album)
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Tim McCord – bass (limited presence)
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Will Hunt – programming, percussion
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Jen Majura – additional contributions
Orchestra & Production
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Orchestral Arrangements & Conductor: David Campbell
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Producer: Will Hunt, Amy Lee
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Label: BMG
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Recorded with a full live orchestra
Tracklist
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Overture
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Never Go Back
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Hi-Lo (feat. Lindsey Stirling)
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My Heart Is Broken
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Lacrymosa
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The End of the Dream
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Bring Me to Life
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Unraveling (Interlude)
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Imaginary
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Secret Door
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Lithium
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Lost in Paradise
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Your Star
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My Immortal
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The In-Between (Piano Solo)
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Imperfection
Commercial Performance
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Debuted at #27 on the Billboard 200
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Reached Top 10 on the Billboard Rock Albums chart
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Charted in multiple international territories
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Supported by the successful Synthesis Live Tour with full orchestra
Though not designed as a mainstream commercial blockbuster, it performed solidly for a symphonic reinterpretation project.
Musical Direction & Style
Synthesis is defined by:
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Full live orchestra replacing heavy guitar riffs
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Electronic beats and atmospheric programming
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Slower, cinematic reimaginings of older material
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Emotional reinterpretations rather than simple remasters
Notably:
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“Bring Me to Life” removes Paul McCoy’s male vocals.
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“Lacrymosa” becomes even more dramatic with orchestral emphasis.
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“Hi-Lo” features violinist Lindsey Stirling, adding a dynamic classical-meets-modern flair.
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“Imperfection” delivers a powerful message about mental health and resilience.
Themes
The album centers around:
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Rebirth and reinvention
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Emotional vulnerability
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Mental health awareness
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Reflection on the band’s legacy
The closing track, “Imperfection,” carries an uplifting message encouraging listeners to value their lives and embrace their flaws.
Fun Facts & Trivia
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“Synthesis” refers to combining orchestral and electronic elements.
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It was Evanescence’s first album released under BMG, after leaving Wind-up Records.
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The project originated from Amy Lee’s long-time desire to work more deeply with orchestras.
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The band toured with a full live orchestra for the first time in their career.
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“Hi-Lo” was originally written during The Open Door era but never released until this album.
Did You Know?
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Amy Lee collaborated closely with David Campbell, father of composer Beck Hansen.
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The album includes an orchestral “Overture” that weaves themes from multiple Evanescence songs.
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It marked a creative turning point leading to their next studio album, The Bitter Truth.
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The Synthesis Tour included elaborate stage production and cinematic visuals.
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Many songs were recorded entirely fresh rather than reusing old vocal takes.
Critical Reception
Critics praised:
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The cinematic ambition
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Amy Lee’s matured vocal performance
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The bold reinvention of familiar hits
Some rock purists missed the heavy guitars, but many fans appreciated the dramatic, symphonic depth.
Album Rating
8.5/10
Synthesis is a daring and elegant reimagining of Evanescence’s legacy. Rather than repeating past success, the band chose reinvention—delivering a cinematic, emotionally powerful experience that showcases Amy Lee’s classical influences and artistic growth.
Download Evanescence Albums from Amazon Music
More Albums:
Evanescence - The Open Door (2006)
Evanescence - Evanescence (2011)
