In film music there is always the question of whether they even without the pictures they accompanied, has enough substance to pass on their own. In the film music of Howard Shore for The Lord of the Rings "was needed not only an Oscar to affirm this fully, because it is full of ideas that serve diverse musical facets, from the Irish-earthy Hobbit theme over elegiac dreamlike soundscapes up toward passages where choir and orchestra unfurl a rousing resonance that "from the Carmina Burana" inferior Carl Orff's O Fortuna in nothing. The music of the double CD is divided into six Movements ", of which two one of the three films represent. Compared to the soundtracks already published some differences arise despite comparability principle: - The music is compressed compared to the original soundtracks to about half the time, but this means no loss, but you can bring so all musical movie-themed attention in grade two hours hearing. - Orchestration and tempos are so close to the original that differences can be seen only in direct comparison. The rest is a matter of taste. To me, this recording of the 21st Century Symphony Orchestra a little dizzy "and transparent" and therefore somehow more alive than before the movie recording. At the reception quality in my opinion there is nothing to complain about. - Fans of Enya, Emiliana Torrini and Annie Lennox likes displeased that their songs are not heard are sung (Enya) or from another interpreter. All others can enjoy the beautiful voice of Kaitlyn Lusk. Overall, therefore, a highly recommended double CD both for those who already know the excellent soundtrack by Howard Shore and appreciate, as well as for those who want to deal for the first time with her.