I picked up a copy of 'The Open Door' by Evanescence on Saturday. It is their first release since 'Fallen' as well as the first without guitarist and co-founder Ben Moody. Leading up to the release of 'The Open Door' there was a lot of speculation as to how the band would sound without Moody. Would they fall off the radar? Would they drift into a sea of turgid Meatloaf style piano led power ballads?

As a follow-up album, 'The Open Door' treads comfortably in the footsteps of its goth tinged pop metal predecessor. Stylistically, there is not a lot here to suggest that Moody's departure has made one ounce of difference to the bands sound. 'The Open Door' contains all the elements that made 'Fallen' a success. The grinding guitars, string orchestration, piano, and the soaring vocals of Amy Lee.

Without Moody, Evanescence really is the Amy Lee show. It only takes a quick flick through the cover art to tell you that (although there is one full band photo). Musically, each song on the album acts as a vehicle to showcase her outstanding vocal range. The track 'Lithium' (not a Nirvana cover) is a prime example. Opening with stark piano contrasted by Lee's operatic vocal style, the track shifts gears with the requisite crashing guitars, and Lee soaring above them.

'Good Enough' is like 'The Open Door' equivalent of 'My Immortal'. A piano driven ballad that provides a break from the albums heavier moments. The lead single 'Call Me When Your Sober' benefits from repeated listens.

My favourite track from the album is 'Sweet Sacrifice'. There is something about the palm muted guitars and vocals harmonising with the lead guitar that instantly appeals to me. I guess it's my inner metal head screaming to be let out.

Overall, 'The Open Door' is a solid follow-up to 'Fallen', and is sure to provide ample material for the next bunch of Australian Idol wannabes. Whilst it closely follows the blue print set by it's predecessor, 'The Open Door' proves that Evanescence are more than a one hit wonder. Buy it if you enjoyed 'Fallen'.