Angra - Aurora Consurgens (2006)

I admit my admirations for Angra have faded as their career has gone on.  I thought TEMPLE OF SHADOWS was quite overrated, and this follow-up has impressed me even less.
Based on the writings of Thomas Aquinas, and focusing on different mental states (like suicide and schizophrenia), as well as being the last album to feature drummer Aquiles Priester, it's quite heavy, which is good, but with few particularly memorable songs. And when they are memorable, like with the ballad "Breaking Ties", it's not for a good reason, since it sounds like Bon Jovi.
Maybe this will grow on me over time. But, for now, I can't really get excited about Aurora Consurgens.

**1/2