Exclusive Interview: 'DOOM', Horror Games, Music, and More with Andrew Hulshult

This extensive interview with Andrew Hulshult, a prominent video game composer, delves into his career, creative process, and musical influences. From his early work on projects like Rise of the Triad and Duke Nukem 3D Reloaded to his contributions to major titles such as DOOM Eternal DLC and Nightmare Reaper, Hulshult discusses his evolution as a musician and the challenges of composing for video games.

The conversation touches upon various aspects of his work, including his unique approach to blending metal influences with diverse musical styles, his collaborations with developers, and the misconceptions surrounding video game music. Hulshult shares anecdotes about his experiences working on specific soundtracks, highlighting the creative process and the emotional connections behind his compositions. He also discusses the impact of personal events, such as his father's health crisis, on his musical output.

The interview also covers Hulshult's gear and equipment, providing insights into his preferred instruments, pedals, amps, and recording techniques. He candidly shares his thoughts on the challenges of balancing artistic expression with the demands of the game development process, the importance of collaboration, and the evolution of his musical style. He also reflects on his work on the Iron Lung film soundtrack, his collaboration with Markiplier, and the differences between composing for film versus video games.

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on Hulshult's involvement with the DOOM franchise, including his IDKFA project and his official contributions to DOOM Eternal's DLC. He details the process of revisiting and remastering the original IDKFA soundtrack, the creative freedom he was given for the DOOM Eternal DLC, and the challenges of creating music that both honors the franchise's legacy and reflects his own artistic growth. He also discusses his thoughts on the popularity of specific tracks, such as "Blood Swamps," and the limitations surrounding their official release.

The interview concludes with Hulshult's reflections on his career, his favorite bands and artists, and his aspirations for future projects. He offers insights into his daily routine, his approach to continuous learning, and his thoughts on the evolution of his musical style.

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