With the release of "Temple of Shadows", two years ago, Angra screamed out that they're still one of the most qualitative power metal bands in the world. I know that many people had crossed them out of the music map but with this excellent album Angra made many of them to bite their tongues. So, everyone was expecting the new recording by our Brazillian fellows which finally arrived and its title:"Aurora Consurgens".

The truth is that my first touch with Angra's new work left me a little cold. By the first notes of the album you'll notice a difference in the band's sound from the one of their previous work. That's not necessarily bad but surprised me a little. Angra chose to follow a more "straight" and "dry" sound. The production isn't so shiny and many times the band seems to be flirting with hard rock. Even the vocals of Edu Falaschi reminded me of Axl Rose at times. Despite all that what we have is a typical Angra album with all their personal characteristics and tribal influences. There is a progressive touch in many compositions but "Aurora Consurgens" is definitely their most distanced album from the sound of their first two works which made them superstars. Loureiro and Bittencourt are one of the best guitar couples and they prove it once again here. Falaschi's performance is very good but i found it a step lower from his amazing one in "Temple of Shadows". The album contains many great moments like the dynamic "The Voice Commanding You" or the blowing power hymn "Salvation Suicide". "So Near, So Far" will remind you of the glorious days of "Angels Cry" while the highlights of the album are definitely the sensational "Ego Painted Grey" and "Screaming your Heart out" with its excellent guitars. "Abandoned Fate" is a perfect epiloque for a very good album. I know that many people have never got over Matos' departure and many are waiting for a new "Holy Land" by the group. I find both of them to be wrong. Angra seem to have found a right and successful path. "Aurora Cosurgens" continues the great work they did with "Temple of Shadows". It's an album that will sound inferior to its predecessor at first but it needs time to show its true value. Another excellent work by Angra. An album that every fan of power metal should check out.