I finally spent the $$$ and purchased Return of the King (from Lord of the Rings) soundtrack. This third soundtrack was recently released and whatr a powerful epic work. I've seeen the disc at both Fry's and Best Buy. Also widely available on line.

The package includes 4 CDs (which I left in my car).

There is also a two sided DVD-A which contains the entire score. There is a stereo version, but I immediately chose the suround version. If you do not have a monitor, the disc will default to the surround format and begin to play.

This is a fantastic soundtrack. I know it is expensive...but you simply will not find music of this caliber, especially a recent composition, created with such care and artistry.

If you have spent a lot of $$$ on your surround system...you owe it to yourself to get this disc.

marcus

Yeah, I have the the first 2. I probaly get this one too, if I can find it below $50.00.

Oh it's GREAT. Well worth every cent! One of the few (expensive) titles out of any music/dvd format truly worth the price premium.

I've listened to the entire disc a few times now (luckily, my wife enjoyed it too). If you've seen the extended version of the film...the music will bring back memories of the story. But, even without the storyline, the music is captivating and the quality of the disc is superb.

If you want to really work out your system, play Side A, track 12. While it starts out with haunting vocals, about mid way through...there is so much music happening at once. All types of horns, and a full string section with a completely different melody. All of it playing together in a unified whole that literally rips the listener emotionally. Its as if everything is happening at once. Joy, fear, courage, all come together.

The Pippen solo is also excellent.

I very much enjoyed this disc. And will likely listen to it often. Now, why can't Hans Zimmer get Gladiator out in SACD or DVD-A? Or how about Kingdom of heaven (excellent soundtrack).

marcus

Now, why can't Hans Zimmer get Gladiator out in SACD or DVD-A? Or how about Kingdom of heaven (excellent soundtrack).

marcus
EXACTLY. Gladiator filmscore would be AMAZING in hi-res surround. I hope one day, in whatever format, they will release it.