Music Review: Evanescence Release Sanctuary

Since their massive debut album Fallen hit the airwaves in 2003, Evanescence has maintained a steady presence in the hard rock/goth rock scene, surviving a not so amicable departure of a founding member and a 6-year hiatus between their self-titled album 3rd album and Synthesis. On June 5th, 2026, they released their 6th studio album, Sanctuary. At first listen, it’s a collection of mid-tempo, melodramatic songs that made the group a mainstay in the emo/goth scene for the last two decades. However, when listened to closely, the album is in actuality a call to arms for one’s autonomy and freedom set over an apocalyptic inspired soundtrack.

The lead singles “Who Will You Follow” and “Afterlife” are cinematic anthems that will translate to huge, sweeping live performances. 

Amongst the tales of angst and anger, Lee’s voice carries songs of hope like sirens were said to call to sailors. “Sanctuary” and “Wide Open” offer messages of encouragement, the latter pleading 

When you lean into the pain you find out who you are

Don’t let if go ‘cause we’re facing the weight of the world

With a wide open heart

Shine the light that’s still left in us

“About Us” is a scathing look at the state of the political landscape, the undercurrent of flowing bass instilling a sense of doom.

‘Cause you got what you want

Now bow down before your god

And no, he doesn’t give a damn about us.

Lee’s vocals are operatic and emotional on “Self Destruct”, making it a standout track late in the album with hard hitting lyrics written as a commentary on gun violence in the US and those that profit from the industry itself with no real consequences.

Are we gonna die before you get enough

You get enough to get off

Which one hits hard, the truth or the gun

Of course, no Evanescence album is complete without at least one track stripped down to just the piano and Lee’s vocals, leaving all vocals raw and vulnerable, as she has often said she draws from lived experiences.  “How Do I Heal” could be interpreted as being about Lee’s relationship with her faith, which has been described as deeply personal and evolving over time; however, the beauty of music is its subjectivity therefore one might hold a lost loved one close to their heart as Lee’s vocals float over the light, haunting piano that’ll echo in the listener’s mind long after the track is over. 

“Forever Without You” is another moving track that talks about finding oneself within a relationship that no longer serves them.

Thought I’d fall forever without you

Turns out forever without you is good for me

Turns out forever without you is what I need.

But when you said goodbye

You didn’t know that I could fly

Well neither did I

In a world where artists are often told to stick to playing music, Lee and company have done just the opposite, delivering an album of hard truths, hope, and redemption. They aren’t going anywhere.

Sanctuary is now streaming on all major platforms.

Evanescence is in the midst of a massive world tour that includes the United States, Europe, and Asia. You can find tickets here https://www.evanescence.com/tour