Reading Time: 2 min read

4 out of 5 stars

Evanescence, Synthesis © BMG Rights ManagementAmy Lee and Evanescence make a capable comeback with “Imperfection,” the closing track and promo single for fourth album, Synthesis.

After a six-year hiatus, Evanescence returns! Evanescence, at least back-when, was kind of a big deal.  Fallen, released in 2003, was that album.  The band’s sophomore album, The Open Door (2006), didn’t do too shabby either.  Since then, however, the band’s popularity has waned.  Still, Amy Lee is still Amy Lee, and Evanescence is still Evanescence, hence, making their fifth studio album, Synthesis, “kind of a big deal.” Single “Imperfection” leads the charge.

Ah, “Imperfections” makes lovely use of piano and strings! This is the first bit of ear candy the listener is privy to.  Additionally, there’s great incorporation of synths, programming, and drum programming. Amy delivers clear, rhythmic vocals.  Shockingly, it doesn’t take long to discover the source of the parental advisory label – an f-bomb.

“The more you try to fight it
The more you try to hide it
The more infected, rejected, you feel alone inside it
You know you can’t deny it
The world’s a little more fucked up every day.”

Was it necessary? Eh, probably not. The chorus is incredibly powerful, featuring big vocals by Lee, and soaring, rhythmic synthesized strings.

“Don’t you dare surrender
Don’t leave me here without you
Cause I could never
Replace your perfect imperfection.”

Following the second verse, there is an impressive instrumental lead-in into the second chorus. This is a clear contrast to the first chorus.  Naturally, there are superb contrasts during the bridge melodically and instrumentally.  The strings, synths, and piano lead the charge in this regard.

“We stand undefined
Can’t be drawn with a straight line
This will not be our ending
We are alive, we are alive.”

Amy Lee closes out “Imperfection” with fine, powerhouse vocals.


Final Thoughts

All in all, “Imperfection” is a solid return by Evanescence.  This is an uplifting song, one about perseverance, being relentless, and showing the utmost fight. The music magnificently matches the lyrics and messaging.  Perhaps Amy Lee and company aren’t the powerhouse they once were, but “Imperfection” is a great start to Synthesis and their comeback.

4 out of 5 stars


Evanescence • Synthesis • BMG Rights Management • Release: 11.10.17
Photo Credit: BMG Rights Management


the musical hype

the musical hype (Brent Faulkner) has earned Bachelor's and Master's degrees in music (music education, music theory/composition respectively). A multi-instrumentalist, he plays piano, trombone, and organ among numerous other instruments. He's a certified music educator, composer, and freelance music blogger. Faulkner cites music and writing as two of the most important parts of his life. Notably, he's blessed with a great ear, possessing perfect pitch.

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