is a three-disc collection that spans composer 's score for the entire trilogy. The -winning skillfully births many of the films' main themes. From the familiar opening violin motif of to the haunting elven hymn lays out the blueprints for this immense work with precision and wonder, allowing the melodies to brew over time. The inclusion of the -penned caused some controversy among purists who believed that the score would suffer if it deviated from the elvish language, yet it remains a pleasant and complimentary addition. The tone of the second film is much darker in scope, so it only seems fitting that paint with a larger brush. With the whimsical theme reduced to short variations, the choral arrangements for battle sequences rule the trilogy's middle child. deftly utilizes the solo soprano in the march of the to up the dramatic ante for the battle of and the introduction of by gives a sympathetic feel to the story's most conflicted character. For , offers up the best of both worlds. The gentle tones of and the brutality of balance the third act with a grace that by now is well earned. The majestic strains of with providing narration in the form of song, is heartbreaking and powerful, and the ring theme has gathered weight in story and score, providing the piece with one its most dramatic moments. is a serviceable "credits only" rendering of the theme and is a bit distracting within the context of the whole project. For the completist, will release a similar box in 2004 containing all of the film music, as well as music from the extended versions of . ~ James Christopher Monger