Angra - Temple Of Shadows (2004)

I hesitate to write a review of this album at the moment as, during the listen I just gave it, I don't think I gave it as much attention as I should have, and I've seen that many hold it in high acclaim.
This Angra piece is about The Shadow Hunter, someone involved in the Crusades who is troubled about what is happening, and his experiences.
The early "Spread Your Fire" is wonderful, and it's a very grandiose, lively record altogether, with much to recommended it. Additionally, it has guest vocals from Kai Hansen, Hansi Kursch and Sabine Edelsbacher.  But I found the music a bit harder to get into as it went along, and I suppose the topic (which is hardly new in rock circles) had me reflecting on the foolishness of the Crusades, and how they have disgraced the Christian church, as well as messing up what is, essentially, a pretty straight-forward and yet beautiful message.
It's impossible to imagine Angra doing a bad or even ordinary album; they're so professional and skilled in their endeavours, and Temple Of Shadows is no exception. But I just don't know what I think about it really, and I think I'm going to have to give it another try and see if I can get more out of it.

UPDATE:  Well, I have listented to it again and, much to my surprise, I enjoyed it less than last time. I still adore "Spread Your Fire", but so much of the rest rambles around the place, losing my interest, and it also just goes on too long.
I'm afraid I can't join in the adoration for this Angra offering. :-/

***