Heavy music has never needed saving—it needed more women willing to reshape it. The Sanctuary Tour at Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre was a testament to exactly that. Across three unforgettable performances, Nova Twins, Spiritbox, and Evanescence reminded a packed crowd that strength can be thunderous, vulnerable, fearless, and inspiring all at once. It wasn’t just another night of live music; it was a celebration of artists continuing to push rock forward on their own terms.
Nova Twins wasted no time igniting the crowd with an electrifying set full of infectious energy and undeniable charisma. Their chemistry and commanding stage presence set the tone for the evening, proving exactly why they’ve become one of the most exciting acts in modern rock.
Spiritbox followed with a performance that was equal parts crushing and captivating. Courtney LaPlante effortlessly moved between haunting melodies and bone-rattling screams, showcasing the versatility and emotion that have made the band one of the defining voices of today’s metal scene.
One of the evening’s standout moments came during “Fight Like a Girl,” when members of Nova Twins joined Evanescence onstage alongside Spiritbox’s Courtney LaPlante. Seeing all three bands united in a single performance perfectly embodied the spirit of the tour—a celebration of collaboration, empowerment, and the continued evolution of women in heavy music.
Then came Evanescence.
Amy Lee’s voice remains as commanding as ever, soaring effortlessly over the band’s cinematic instrumentation. Every note carried the emotion and power that has defined Evanescence for more than two decades, while the band’s production transformed the amphitheater into an immersive experience of light, sound, and raw feeling.
Yet perhaps the most unforgettable moment of the night happened off the stage.
Two young girls, proudly wearing Evanescence shirts, danced from their box seats from the moment the music began. During the third song of Evanescence’s set, venue staff surprised them by escorting them into the pit. Their screams of pure excitement rang out so loudly they could be heard over the band’s full production. It was impossible not to smile. Everyone in their section knew they were witnessing a core memory being made. Chances are, those girls will never want to experience another rock show from anywhere but the pit.
The Sanctuary Tour wasn’t simply a showcase of three incredible bands. It was a reminder of how far women in rock have come, the barriers they’ve broken, and the next generation they’re inspiring. On a night built around powerful performances, that unexpected moment in the crowd became the perfect reflection of everything the tour represents.
Melissa O’Rourke aka WickedWitchofSTL is a jack of all trades. By day she’s an established tattooist and piercer, by night a mother to her amazing son (who is a hell of a guitarist). Melissa has a musical background and can often be found at a local karaoke joint, or a concert when she’s not driving across the country for an adventure. This social butterfly always welcomes conversation so come say hi! See y’all at the next gig!
