This extensive interview with Andrew Hulshult, a prominent video game composer, delves into his career, creative process, and personal preferences. It covers a wide range of topics, from his early work on projects like Rise of the Triad and Duke Nukem 3D Reloaded, to his more recent contributions to titles such as DOOM Eternal, Nightmare Reaper, Amid Evil, and Prodeus.
Hulshult discusses the challenges and rewards of composing for video games, emphasizing the importance of respecting the source material while injecting his unique style. He reflects on his evolution as a musician, the misconceptions surrounding video game music, and the pressure of meeting fan expectations. The conversation touches upon specific tracks from various games, exploring his creative decisions and the influences behind them. He also shares anecdotes about collaborations with developers and his experiences working under time constraints and during personal hardships.
A significant portion of the interview focuses on his technical setup, including his guitar preferences (Caparison guitars, Seymour Duncan pickups), amps (Neural DSP Quad Cortex), and effects pedals. He details his workflow and the importance of continuous learning and self-improvement. He also discusses his approach to composing for different games, balancing ambient and high-energy tracks to complement gameplay.
The interview also covers his work on the Iron Lung film soundtrack, his collaboration with Markiplier, and the differences between composing for film and games. He touches upon his first chiptune album, Dusk 82, and the possibility of remastering older soundtracks.
The conversation concludes with discussions about his favorite bands (Gojira, Metallica), his thoughts on recent Metallica albums, a cherished piece of music memorabilia (a Pantera vinyl and tour plaque), and his preferred coffee (cold brew, black). Throughout the interview, Hulshult displays a genuine passion for his craft, a deep understanding of the music industry, and a willingness to share insightful perspectives on his creative journey.
