This extensive interview with Andrew Hulshult, a prominent video game composer, delves deep into his career, creative process, and personal experiences. From his early work on projects like Rise of the Triad and Duke Nukem 3D Reloaded, to his contributions to major titles like DOOM Eternal and Amid Evil, Hulshult shares insights into his musical evolution and the challenges of composing for different games.
The conversation covers a wide range of topics:
- Early Career: Hulshult recounts his unexpected entry into the industry, initially unsure of his market value, and how his work on Duke Nukem 3D Reloaded led to opportunities with Apogee and Rise of the Triad 2013. He discusses the pressures of reinterpreting classic soundtracks while maintaining his unique style.
- Musical Evolution: Hulshult reflects on his growth as a musician and professional, highlighting the learning curve of navigating industry contracts and the importance of balancing artistic vision with financial stability. He addresses the misconception that video game music is easy, emphasizing the complexity of understanding game design philosophies and effectively translating them into music.
- Game-Specific Soundtracks: The interview delves into specific game soundtracks, including Rise of the Triad 2013, Bombshell, Nightmare Reaper, and Prodeus. Hulshult discusses his creative process for each, explaining how he balances respecting source material with incorporating his own stylistic influences. He reveals interesting anecdotes, such as the whiskey and coffee-fueled late-night sessions for Rise of the Triad, and the unique challenges of composing Amid Evil's DLC during a family emergency.
- DOOM Eternal DLC: Hulshult discusses the experience of working on the DOOM Eternal DLC, the unexpected popularity of "Blood Swamps," and the challenges of creating music that complements but doesn't overshadow Mick Gordon's established work. He explains the collaborative process with id Software and the decision to create a fresh, modern take on the DOOM II soundtrack for the IDKFA release.
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Gear and Process: Hulshult details his current guitar setup, pedals, amps, and recording process, offering insights into his equipment choices and how they influence his sound. He also discusses his daily routine, emphasizing the importance of sleep, planning, and incorporating regular exercise to maintain focus and productivity.
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Iron Lung Soundtrack: He briefly touches upon his work on the soundtrack for the Markiplier film Iron Lung, highlighting the differences between composing for film and games, and praising Markiplier's collaborative approach.
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Future Projects and Influences: The interview concludes with Hulshult's thoughts on his favorite bands (Gojira, Metallica), his musical influences, and his aspirations for future projects, including a hypothetical soundtrack for a Duke Nukem reboot or Minecraft.
This interview provides a comprehensive and engaging look into the world of video game music composition, offering valuable insights from a highly skilled and respected artist.
