The soundtrack for Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor by Gary Schyman and Nathan Grigg was a dark and brooding affair, reflecting the tragedy of its central characters. It was a score based upon haunting strings, low vocals and ominous tones. However, both composers have crafted a somewhat different soundscape for the sequel Middle-earth: Shadow of War. It should be noted that if you are an ardent fan of Howard Shores scores for Peter Jackson’s movies, that Gary Schyman and Nathan Grigg’s approach to Middle-earth is quite different, although both are orchestral works. Shores grandiose themes often reflected the enormity and history of Middle-earth. Here the music is more personal, channelling the emotions of those who stories unfold against such momentous events.