After the multi-platinum "Fallen," and taking a three-year break, Evanescence is back with a vengeance, with their new release "The Open Door."

   During the break, evanescence endured a band overhaul. Two members, including fellow founding member Ben Moody, left the band. For most bands swinging door for band member and the break would entail career suicide. But all of that gets put on the back burner when you release an Album like "The Open Door."

   "The Open Door" was released the same week that The Killers released their sophomore album "Sam’s Town," and Jet’s new effort "Shine on." They out sold both bands and overtook the top spot from Justin Timberlake.

   A lot of critics have been complaining that "The Open Door" sounds nothing like "Fallen." Give me a break! It’s called growth! Why would anyone want duplication with their music?

   The stand out track on the album is "Lithium." With the haunting piano, the thundering guitar rifts and Amy’s immaculate voice, it is impossible to listen to this song and not be moved.

   Never afraid to approach the dark side of life, "Lithium" exposes how addicting depression can be. It shows that an individual may want to get better, but the feeling of despair is all too easy to feel: "I want to stay in love with my sorrow/ Oh God, but I want to let it go."

   Another stand out track is "All That I’m Living For," a very Un-Evanescence like song. The guitar rifts are so energetic, that even non-rock listeners could appreciate this song.

   The least likable track is the over played lead single “Call Me When You’re Sober.” It’s impossible to turn on the radio, or turn the tv to MTV or VH1, without hearing this song. I can respect the fact that she is smacking her ex, Shaun Morgan, lead singer of the band Seether, in the face with this song. But when I hear the song for the first time, and I mistake Evanescence with Christina Aguilera, Houston we have a problem.

   Amy and the guys have surpassed my expectations with this album. If you have an appreciation for really good music and are sick and tired of the whining from all of these Emo bands, give this album a shot.

    I know we live in the age of downloading, but I assure you that this song is worth the twelve bucks. If for no other reason, purchase the album to support an Arkansan.