This extensive interview with Andrew Hulshult, a prominent video game composer, delves into his career, creative process, and equipment. The conversation covers his work on various titles, including Rise of the Triad 2013, Bombshell, Nightmare Reaper, Prodeus, Amid Evil, and the DOOM Eternal DLC.
Hulshult discusses the challenges and misconceptions surrounding video game music, emphasizing the importance of respecting source material while injecting personal style. He details his evolution as a musician, highlighting the learning curve of navigating industry contracts and managing expectations. The interview also touches upon his experiences with specific games, exploring his creative choices and the emotional context surrounding some of his work, such as the Amid Evil DLC, composed during a family emergency.
The discussion extends to his gear, including his favored guitars (Caparison Dellinger 7 and Brocken 8), pickups (Seymour Duncan), string gauges, amps (Neural DSP Quad Cortex with Engel cabinets), and effects pedals. He shares anecdotes about his collaborations with developers, the unique challenges of composing for film (as seen in his work on Iron Lung), and his approach to creating dynamic soundtracks that seamlessly integrate with gameplay. The interview also explores his early work with chiptune music (Dusk 82) and his thoughts on remastering older soundtracks.
A significant portion focuses on his involvement with the DOOM franchise, specifically the IDKFA project and his contributions to the DOOM Eternal DLC. Hulshult reflects on the unexpected success of IDKFA, its eventual official recognition by id Software, and the collaborative process of creating the DOOM Eternal DLC music, highlighting his relationship with David Levy and Chad Mossholder. He discusses the popularity of "Blood Swamps" and the complexities surrounding its legal availability.
The interview concludes with Hulshult sharing his favorite bands (Gojira, Metallica, and Jesper Kyd), his thoughts on the evolution of Metallica's music, a cherished piece of music memorabilia, and his preferred coffee (cold brew, black). He also speculates on dream projects, expressing interest in composing for a potential Duke Nukem revival or Minecraft, and for films like Man on Fire or American Gangster.
This comprehensive interview offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of video game music composition, revealing the creative process, technical expertise, and personal experiences that shape Andrew Hulshult's distinctive sound.