Customer Ratings & Reviews

I was lucky enough to go to a talk back with Howard Shore after he directed the Clevland Symphony in playing The Lord of the Rings. He explained how he uses melody themes for people, etc. So I am enjoying listening for those themes in the music and identifying them with where they are in the movie. In addition the score evokes images of the movie. Lastly I just enjoy the music in and of itself.

Listen to Misty Mountains over and over w/4 bonus'

Great folklore and mythology. It is natural music.

I personally didn't like this music as much as the original LOTR trilogy's music but it was still good and entertaining.

Get this if you are a fan of film scores. Some of the music has you feel like you are back in the scenes.

Howard Shore is one of my favorite composers and I continually listen to the Lord of the Rings trilogy soundtracks. A movie has many components that make it successful, but in my opinion it is truly a masterpiece when it has a carefully crafted soundtrack. I love how they bring back recurring themes from the first three Lord of the Rings movies. Yet, even though some parts are completely recognizable, these themes are filled with subtle differences. "Misty Mountains" in particular is a powerful track that is filled with wonder and adventure. "The Adventure Begins" builds excitement and has playful elements. Overall, I really enjoyed the soundtrack and will continue to follow Howard Shore's music. The only downside to the soundtrack is that it is expensive. You can find it for download about half of what it goes for on CD. eMusic is a great place to look for downloads if you don't want it on a disc.

I have been a Howard Shore fan for years and always marveled by the complexity and simpleness of his music. I was able to hear the whole soundtrack on Rolling Stone's website before the album became available in stores and it reaffirmed me to buy the album. If you loved his work for the Lord of the Rings Trilogy, you are going to love his work for The Hobbit.

I loved the three LOTR soundtracks and this is similar and just as good! The printed insert (comes with the discs) with program notes and insights is wonderful to read. The bonus tracks are great listening. Great variety in styles.