Hulshult Talks DOOM, Blood Swamps, DUSK, and More

This extensive interview with Andrew Hulshult, a prominent video game composer, delves into his career, creative process, and musical influences. Beginning with his early work on projects like the canceled Duke Nukem 3D Reloaded and Rise of the Triad: 2013, Hulshult discusses the evolution of his style and the challenges of balancing artistic vision with commercial demands. He emphasizes the importance of respecting source material while injecting his own unique flair, evident in his work on titles like Dusk, Bombshell, and Nightmare Reaper.

The conversation touches upon misconceptions surrounding video game music, the pressures of working on established franchises, and the emotional impact of personal experiences on his compositions. Hulshult shares anecdotes about his collaborations with various developers, including his work on Amid Evil’s DLC during a family emergency. He details his creative process, highlighting the importance of understanding a game's atmosphere and designing music that complements gameplay dynamics.

A significant portion of the interview is dedicated to Hulshult's work on DOOM Eternal's DLC, specifically the IDKFA soundtrack. He reveals the process of revisiting and remastering his original tracks, and creating new music for DOOM II. He also discusses his gear and setup, providing details on his guitars, pedals, amps, and recording techniques. The interview concludes with Hulshult's thoughts on his favorite bands, his aspirations for future projects, and his reflections on his career.

The interview is interspersed with embedded YouTube videos showcasing Hulshult's work, providing listeners with a sonic accompaniment to his insightful commentary. The inclusion of these videos enhances the overall experience, offering a deeper understanding of his musical style and contributions to the video game industry.