I always loved the first album as a whole, one of my favourite power metal albums probably. The second one initially dissapointed me, partially due to it having a lot of slower songs and moments, as well as being overall less intense at it's bombastic/faster peaks. However, the second one has grown on me over the years and I think it is a very good disc, albeit with some uninteresting moments that take too long. For example, I fully agree that Dorian has a dragging middle part that hampers an otherwise good song.
Anyways, I think Iced Earth has delivered some great music in their latest albums, the newest one in particular. And Hansi has delivered fantastic vocals on Beyond the Red Mirror and some recent guest spots, so I have good hopes for this one. After many years, both Jon and Hansi feel it is the right time, which to me indicates that they will enter the studio inspired.