I should have responded to your initial post on this, but HELL YEAH to this series! I was obsessed with this series in high school, and still maintain an enjoyment through the Master Chief Collection. The music remains a perennial favorite for me to this day! (Setting aside Marty's political remarks and activities xp ) Suuuuper stoked for you to reach my absolute faves, ODST and Reach!

I agree with everything you say here, though I'd probably let nostalgia guide my rating this a four stars on album as well. Occasional dull passages are more than offset by the rocking and atmosphere you mentioned. 'A Walk in the Woods' probably encapsulates the vibe I appreciate best, with its mystical build and propulsive energy. Some of the suspense material definitely has that distinctive turn-of-the-century keyboard sounds, and those usually get skipped when I relisten.

The anniversary album is an interesting beast, as it adds a *lot* of ambient music that turns a fairly crisp runtime into a slog (along with some questionable track ordering choices). Glad it exists, and it has some interesting reinterpretations, but it's definitely a companion and not an equal. Interesting case study on how even a loyal 'remix' as such can come across so differently despite the stated intent.

I'm so stoked for this rundown, can't wait to hear your thoughts to come!!