Here's my reasoning (I concede it might not be correct): modern movies almost always go for the "ultra realistic" approach. This is made evident in departments like cinematography. Night scenes aren't "lit" anymore and they are almost always super dark and "realistic". Almost like you're watching a documentary. Maybe they're taking the same approach with the score? To make it as discreet as possible so it doesn't deliberately stand out? Just a thought, though. I could be very wrong.

As always, epic article, Simon.