The newest CD released by Evanescence, titled The Open Door, features 13 gothic rock songs all written by lead singer Amy Lee. In their follow up to Fallen, Evanescence’s music has a heavier rock sound and is full of issues that Amy Lee has gone through in the past couple of years. Although ex-guitarist and songwriting partner Ben Moody has left the group, Lee has managed to create powerful melodies with present guitarist Terry Balsamo. Each of the 13 songs expresses ideas and struggles that Lee has experienced within her life.

The first three songs on the disc are titled “Sweet Sacrifice,” the hit single “Call Me When You’re Sober,” and “Weight of the World.” Both “Sweet Sacrifice” and “Weight of the World” start off with an edgy rock guitar tone, while “Call Me When You’re Sober” is more of a toned – down rock melody. Following these three songs are “Lithium,” “Cloud Nine,” and “Snow White Queen.” All three of the songs feature strong vocals by Lee while fully expressing what the lyrics are trying to say.

“Lithium” uses its title repeatedly throughout the chorus while expressing how she “don’t want to forget, don’t want to lock me up inside.”

“Lacrymosa,” “Like You,” “Lose Control,” and “The Only One” are the next four songs on the disc. “Lacrymosa” is especially unique for Evanescence because it uses a live chorus within the background of the song. “Like You” is a softer rock melody than both “Lose Control” and “The Only One.” It relates more to the last song on the disc entitled “Good Enough,” which speaks about feeling good enough for someone in your life. “Your Song” begins with a very slow-pace melody that ties in well with the fact that the song is speaking about loneliness. It then leads into that faster rock melody that Evanescence is known for. “All That I’m Living For” features strong rock vocals by Amy Lee that capture the entity of “all that I’m living for, all that I’m dying for.”

Overall, The Open Door is laid out in typical Evanescence fashion. The songs have definitely matured from Fallen, but they still remain to be in the roots of gothic rock.

The lyrics are more powerful and Lee’s voice has grown from the previous album, yet it really is not anything that extraordinary. Perhaps The Open Door should stay closed next time.