What You Need to Know: It's nice to hear Jeremy Soule open things up a bit. Having listened to a couple of previous scores he composed, I was impressed with his skill level but was hoping for more of a drive in his music.
Order of War granted him that opportunity.
Not since the early days of Medal of Honor have I heard a main theme as gallant and exciting as the one written by Soule for Order of War. Truly, it's spectacular and also highly memorable; you'll hear its echoes long after you've listened to the album. In short, it's how themes should be delivered; purposeful, smart, and with a sense of originality in mind. In fact, what I like most about Soule's work here is that he brings a fresh viewpoint to the genre. He doesn't hover on any forced patriotic melodies or stock action material. No, the score is focused, feels honest and moves forward with efficiency and a sense of purpose. The only minor critique about the soundtrack is that its final two tracks close the album out rather nondescriptly. Track 17 is the last highlight (of many) while the last two cues can simply looked upon as bonus tracks.
The tone of this score is orchestral. Now, I am not sure if Soule used live instruments in some instances or if he used his mammoth virtual orchestra exclusively, but either way, Order of War stakes its claim as an orchestral experience. And indeed, if this sound was derived from instrument samples and electronic resources, than Soule must be applauded for what he has achieved with this output.
Delivery aside, this is simply good, bold music to dive into, especially if you enjoy war music with heroic, gritty attributes. You can tell that there is a rather advanced creative mind at play with this score and it makes you hope that Jeremy Soule can branch out to projects that are a bit more commercial in nature so that we can hear what he's really capable of.
Final Grade: Order of War is, at times, a spectacular venture. Jeremy Soule delivers an ambitious score that will grant both the game play and the listening experience uncompromised excitement. Be sure to embark on this mission!
