Unlike some of the other Mass Effect 2 DLCs, Lair of the Shadow Broker introduces seven new music tracks, quite a large number for several hours of gameplay. Not unlike some of the other DLCs, however, the overall quality doesn’t hold up to the standard of the core game’s soundtrack. There are a few pieces worth listening to here, however, but none surpass the greatness of those found on the OST.
The album starts with “As They Enter,” a track obviously meant to set up a story, what with its ominous opening and slight upward movement. I did enjoy the curious twinkling heard in the background, an almost fantastical sound that suggests hidden knowledge as well as scheming, both appropriate for the DLC’s subject. “Building Explosion” starts with, well, an explosion, but never goes much of anywhere after that. There are three combat tracks, and the first, “Agent Combat,” features a warm, tight synth beat I find appealing. “Vasir Combat” is effective without being memorable, and “Final Combat” sounds similar, although provides some evolution. “Double Cross” may be the least exciting track of all, and “Shadow Broker” is unfortunately not as exciting as finally discovering the identity of the mysterious Broker would suggest.
As with the Overlord DLC soundtrack, the absence of Jack Wall puts this music below that of the core game; Chris Lennertz is a capable composer, but he doesn’t have the passion that makes Wall’s music glow with potency. Only compulsive collectors and loyal fans need seek out this soundtrack.
