Evanescence Concert Review Talking Stick Resort Amphitheater Phoenix, AZ-July 15, 2026

2 days ago
4 min read

Updated: 3 hours ago

Concert Review and Photos By Roc Boyum

Evanescence electrified Phoenix, AZ, on July 15, 2026, as a thrilling highlight for these fans of their Evanescence World Tour 2026. This unforgettable night also featured performances by special guests Spiritbox and Nova Twins—the show went on ignoring the threat of rain, defying the elements and captivating the crowd!

Outdoor concerts in Phoenix during July are usually a reliable choice, despite the heat and dryness. However, this July has ushered in the monsoon season earlier than expected, bringing with it a looming threat of rain. The Talking Stick Resort Amphitheater is primarily regarded as an outdoor venue, and while rain and lightning have occasionally caused delays and even cancellations in the past, this was simply not an option for the dedicated fans.

The Nova Twins kicked off the concert with their own musical whirlwind as winds and distant thunder rumbled ominously.

The band's infectious mix of dance, rap and a heavy dose of massive bass guitar was met with audience cheers right from the start. Many in attendance were familiar with the bands material as the crowd sing-alongs started early in their set. The band gave the Phoenix audience a fast and furious six song set that surely won over some new fans.

Next up the Canadian rock and metal band Spiritbox, unleashed their energy onto the stage. Led by the powerful and engaging vocals of Courtney LaPlante, along with guitarist Mike Stringer, drummer Zev Rosenberg, and bassist Josh Gilbert, they brought the Phoenix audience to their feet with the band's energy in full force from the moment they hit the stagewhich continued throughout their entire set.

The band's music traverses multiple genres, with most fans identifying their sound as metalcore—a remarkable blend of both classic and contemporary metal. They captivated the Phoenix audience with a powerful and engaging twelve-song set that included fan favorites like "Jaded," "Circle With Me," and "Softspine." The latter track was briefly paused for the removal of a disruptive fan in the GA Pit. Spiritbox's performance was filled with audience sing-alongs, driven by the band's powerful, precision-crafted songs that brim with raw emotion, creating an irresistible allure.

Then Came The Moment The Entire Audience Was Waiting For

Evanescence was about to take the stage!

With Evanescence not having toured since 2022, and focusing instead on new music, this heightened anticipation for their live performance and excitement for their return reached unprecedented levels. The crowd seemed to hold its breath, this long-awaited return was a dream come true for dedicated fans, captivating the entire audience and lifting them to their feet the moment the lights dimmed.

The band burst onto the stage with singer Amy Lee commanding attention in a way only she can.

Their performance dazzled with visual displays, pyrotechnics, and scissor jacks that elevated individual band members at various moments.

The band delivered a spectacular show, featuring an extensive setlist of 21 songs that showcased their entire career, including 12 tracks from their highly anticipated and most recent release, Sanctuary.

Even though the Sanctuary LP was released on June 5, 2026, just under six weeks before this concert, the fans were already singing along to every lyric! This album was designed for the grand stage, boasting a powerful sound, fierce attitude, and soaring vocals.

Evanescence kicked off the show by treating the Phoenix audience to four tracks from the Sanctuary LP: “Sanctuary,” “Tell Me You’ve Had Enough,” “Afterlife,” and “Rapture,” in that order. Oh yes! Evanescence and their latest album arrived with full force, presenting a show that was larger, better, and bolder than ever, and the sound was simply amazing.

The band also revisited their debut LP, Fallen, showcasing a classic song that embodies the essence of Evanescence, "Going Under." This track had everyone singing along, including those who likely weren't even born when the album was released in 2003... truly remarkable!

Next, they delved into their second LP, The Open Door, performing "Lithium" and "Like You," with Lee noting that this year marks the 20th anniversary of that album.

The band also brought other beloved hits to the stage, including "Call Me When You're Sober," "Bring Me To Life," and one of the two songs presented from their 2021 release, The Bitter Truth, with "Better Without You."

The live rendition of "Better Without You" was spectacular, featuring its heavy, jagged syncopated rhythms, Lee's scorching vocals, and drummer Will Hunt expressing a type of savage grace as he pummeled his drum kit, all while elevated on his scissor jack drum riser. At times, his cymbal attacks resembled the movements of a freestyle swimmer, creating a circular assaulting motion that was a sense of flowing aggression... an outstanding showman!

Another Evening Highlight: “Fight Like a Girl”

One of the standout moments of the evening occurred during the performance of “Fight Like a Girl,” an empowering anthem celebrating vengeance, psychological resilience, and female strength. To amplify the song's impactful message, Lee was accompanied on stage by LaPlate from Spiritbox and the Nova Twins, creating an electric atmosphere filled with palpable energy.

The entire set was packed with a ton of memorable moments; this is a show you won’t want to miss, especially considering they may not return for another four years. You’ll kick yourself for missing out on this one!

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