Halo 3

For the third installment in Bungie's blockbuster Halo series, composers Martin O'Donnell and Michael Salvatori offer up a whole new world of themes, while still maintaining the orchestral, modern rock foundation of the first two volumes. This time around, the beloved "Master Chief" has been replaced by a ragtag crew of "ODST" (Orbital Drop Shock Troopers), and while the objective remains the same (kill or avoid the "Covenant"), the action takes place primarily among humans, and as the player navigates the streets of occupied "New Mombasa," moody strings, jazzy piano, and even saxophone provide accompaniment. As the action ramps up, so does the music (the back end of Halo 3: ODST will feel more familiar to fans than the front), but it's the early moments that set this collection of video game music apart. One doesn't require knowledge of the game to enjoy the score, as it's got an atmosphere all its own. ~ James Christopher Monger