TEMPLE OF SHADOWS

You never know what to expect next on this new album. While a song can start as yet another boring Power Metal ballad turns out into a strong mid-paced tune with a huge chorus ("Wishing Well"). On the other hand, when you think the song will only be yet another speed of light, high octane number, it turns out to become a progressive track ala TIME MACHINE ("Winds Of Destination"). There is even a slight return to the flavours of HOLY LAND, with the South American influences of "Sprout Of Time". All in all, the strong asset of this new ANGRA album is the effort they put into the song writing, which never sounds rushed, thus no filler songs can be found on "Temple Of Shadows". Also, there is a big thumb up to be send to the band for their vocal melodies, which are one of the best in this genre since maybe HELLOWEEN's "Keepers Of The Seventh Key Part I And II".

It is easy for a band to state that they mix influences, but to make it sounds polished and unforced, this requires a song writing talent that not so many bands possess. In this case, with "Temple Of Shadows", ANGRA won't be accused of blending influences just for the sake of it, as many bands could learn a valuable song writing lesson while listening to the songs featured on this new CD. With blazing and tasty solos, Loureiro and Bittencour, with their strong sense of melody, proves the Metal World they are still capable of great guitar abilities.

There are also some interesting guests to be found on "Temple Of Shadows". Adding their own identity to their respective songs part, it sounds like the parts where in fact written with them in mind. Just a quick listen to the Hansi Kürsch parts in "Winds Of Destination" will make you wish this was a BLIND GUARDIAN song. Sabine Edelsbacher (EDENBRIDGE) and the renowned GAMMA RAY singer, Kai Hansen, also sing some parts in this more than diverse Power Metal album. Tired of hearing the same Power Metal clichés and pattern? "Temple Of Shadows" is the perfect prescription for the sick fans out there who needs a remedy for Power Metal Boringness! (Online February 12, 2005)