TEMPLE OF SHADOWS

Temple of Shadows is an amazing album, featuring their most solid work yet. Angra really goes through the motions on this release, showing off the technical ability and song-writing talent of every member of the band. The production quality is astounding as well. Although ToS is different from many of Angra's earlier CDs, it still maintains the band's Progressive Brazilian Power-Metal style. Overall, this is a rockin' album and if you buy the Special Edition you get a bonus DVD featuring an awesome Live performance in Sao Paulo. I guess my only gripe (and this is completely subjective) is that the album really doesn't calm down very much -- It's a very loud and powerful release that doesn't take any pit-stops. This however, is just a matter of personal taste. I guess the ideas just sort of flowed when they sat down to write this stuff and therefore they didn't feel the need to include what some might call "filler". Not a single throw-away song on here, and if you're in the mood for high-energy music with epic themes and incredible complexity, Temple of Shadows is the perfect listen.

Overall Rating: 5/5

Final Word: If you like Power Metal or Progressive Metal with some exotic stylings and epic writing, definitely check this one out. Even Angra fans who've become disenchanted with the band since Maatos left may want to check this one out. It certainly surprised me.