evanescence/(ev’e-nes’ens ): a dissipation or disappearance like vapor
Evanescence is a truly spectacular band! Even though they've only been noticed mainly within the last year, they have actually been making music since 1997.
In the beginning, Amy Lee and Ben Moody were the only 2 members of the band. Both from Little Rock, Arkansas... both wanting that "dream." They met each other at a religious band camp when they were young teenagers. Ben had noticed Amy playing the piano and singing, and was shocked at how good she was.
They decided to form a duo/band together, and they began writing songs even weeks after they met. At this time they gained a label, began some serious work together, and made their first EP.
Amy and Ben gained a member by the name of David Hodges, a keyboardist/singer who had great talent. The 3 of them made a "pre-album" called "Origin," spending a mere $300 US on the project, which was recorded in Ben's attic. Even though the band weren't exactly professionals, "Origin" sure sounded it! The songs/recordings were absolutely stunning, especially considering the members' ages... all 3 being about 18-19 years of age at the time. ("Origin" is now a huge success, selling for over $300 US on eBay!)
After a while, they gained the rest of the group's talented members: John LeCompt, Will Boyd, and Rocky Gray. (David Hodges now became a helper instead of a member.) The band was now a 5-some, and was ready to hit the world hard!
They recorded "Fallen" with the help of their label, Wind-Up Records. (The drums were recorded by Josh Freese, their studio drummer... Rocky being their tour drummer.)
The album has been a HUGE success! Selling over 10 million to date, and still going as strong as ever! Each single made has also been very successful, especially their introducing epic "Bring Me to Life." "Fallen" has also gained 2 GRAMMY Awards, making the future of Evanescence a bright one.
In October of 2003, Ben Moody decided to leave Evanescence. Even though the parting was semi-planned ahead of time, it was a tragic loss for many fans. Ben and Amy weren't seeing eye-to-eye as much as they used to, so it was time for a change.
To replace Ben, Evanescence has gained a new guitarist, Terry Balsamo, from the band Cold. Evanescence have plans to start recording their 2nd release soon. It's sure to be a great album!
Amy Lee is the vocal angel behind the band's music. She is not only the face of the band, but is also the reason for Evanescence being as great as they are! Her moodful voice reaches a new climax that would make most others jealous. The passion and uniqueness behind her vocals and piano playing is almost indescribable, and her opinions and views on moral values equally matches her beauty.
Amy was choir president in high school, and studied classical piano (such as Mozart) for 9 years! Her talent is amazing, as well as her great maturity as an artist, being only 22. Many people around the world are heavily inspired by Amy, and it's very healthy, considering her morally correct views on being against women selling their bodies... and urging people to find their individuality.
Even though Ben Moody is no longer in the band, we still can't deny his talent. He was a very important member, considering he was one of 2 founding members, and was the secondary face of the band.
His guitar playing may not have broke boundaries, but his overall uniqueness and love for what he did was highly appreciated. He gave most of his life away to start Evanescence out, selling off most of his stuff, and having to sleep in cars, just to gain money for the band. His recognizable riffs and solos were a heavy influence on the music, and the fans as well.
Even though he is continuing on with his career - making songs for soundtracks, working with Avril Lavigne and Kelly Clarkson, and going to produce films in the future - he will still be sadly missed in Evanescence.
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Album Title |
Date Released |
Approx. Number of CDs Made |
| "Fallen" | March, 2003 | (Over 10 million sold so far!) |
| "Origin" (Pre-album) | November, 2000 | Approx. 2500-5000 |
| "Whisper-Sound Asleep EP" (CD-R) | August, 1999 | Limited Edition of only 50! |
| "Evanescence EP" (CD-R) | December, 1998 | Limited Edition of only 100! |
