Concert review: Evanescence | 07.28.26, Hollywood Casino Amphitheater (with photo gallery)

Photo of Evanescence by Sevauna Stageman

Some artists remind you why they’ve stayed relevant for so long the second they step on stage. That was exactly the case when Evanescence returned to Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre this summer, bringing a performance that blended fan favorites with newer material while proving they still sound as absolutely perfect live as they do on record. The biggest standout of the night was Amy Lee. I’ve always known she was an incredible vocalist, but hearing her live somehow made me appreciate her voice even more. Whether the band was playing one of their heavier rock songs or slowing things down for a ballad, she moved between the two without ever losing power or emotion.

One of my favorite moments came when a grand piano was rolled onto the stage. As Lee sat down to play, the pace of the show shifted, creating a quieter, more intimate moment before jumping back into the band’s heavier sound. Hearing “My Immortal” live was already special since it’s my favorite Evanescence song, but what made it even better was that Lee didn’t sing it exactly like the studio version. She changed parts of the vocal melody throughout the performance, showing off her still pristine vocals and felt as if they were created specifically for the fans at the venue.

Of course, the loudest crowd reaction came during “Bring Me to Life. The amphitheater was packed with longtime fans, and by the time the chorus hit, it felt like just about everyone was singing along. The band was playing, but you could hear thousands of fans singing every word right back at them. Amy also took time throughout the night to talk with the audience, reflecting on the band’s journey over the years. She genuinely seemed happy to be there, and that excitement carried through the entire performance.

Evanescence’s setlist did a great job mixing newer songs like “About Us” and “Beautiful Lie” with the classics that fans came to hear, and every transition felt natural. More than twenty years into their career, the band isn’t relying on nostalgia, they’re still putting on a show that feels fresh while giving fans exactly what they came for.

The show closed with the emotional power of “Wide Open Heart” from their new album Sanctuary, serving as the final song of the night. If the night’s performance proved anything, it’s that Amy Lee remains one of rock’s best live vocalists. Evanescence continues to put on a show that’s just as emotional, powerful, and engaging as ever. | Sevauna Stageman