I think people, when they make comparisons to the old ralph, forget about how dead it could get in there at times. Most people remember the absolute greatest moments in the old REA history, and apply that to what it is like all the time. Of course the atmosphere is going to be great during those games. The new REA has plenty of time to establish its own history!!
The last couple years of the old ralph, I can only think of 2 times when the atmosphere was outstanding. The 3rd period comebacks against the gophers and huskies during the 2000-2001 season.