Australian composer Mick Gordon has carved a niche for himself as a leading figure in the videogame music landscape, renowned for his distinctive propulsive, distorted, future-metal sound. This signature style has played a pivotal role in shaping the audio experience of id Software’s acclaimed reboots of Wolfenstein and Doom. Following a public split with longtime collaborator Bethesda five years ago, Gordon has since ventured into various projects, contributing to metal albums and the soundtrack of Atomic Heart, while also making guest appearances on works like Absolum. Recently, he announced his involvement in crafting the full soundtrack for the highly anticipated cyberpunk first-person shooter, Defect. In a recent conversation with Defect director Emanuel Palalic, we delved into the game’s unique vision, Gordon’s contributions, and the evolving landscape of game music.
Collaboration and Creative Synergy
Defect draws inspiration from a rich tapestry of influences, notably the visual and thematic elements reminiscent of the 2011 film Dredd. The game is set in a sprawling metropolis dominated by towering high-rises and an omnipresent surveillance AI that seeks to maintain order amidst rampant criminality. Gordon expressed enthusiasm for Defect’s distinctive aesthetic, noting that it allows him to seamlessly integrate his musical style. His previous collaborations with Palalic on Doom 2016 and Doom Eternal have fostered a strong creative rapport, which further enhances their partnership on this new project.
Palalic, who served as a character artist on both Doom titles, fondly recalled their collaborative efforts, particularly the “metal choir” featured in Doom Eternal. “Mick is one of the most talented musicians I’ve met,” he remarked, reminiscing about how Gordon instinctively set the tempo during recording sessions, guiding the entire crew with his innate musicality.
Exploring New Musical Frontiers
Gordon’s approach to Defect is characterized by a desire to preserve the game’s unique identity while infusing it with his signature elements. He is experimenting with two hallmark techniques: “microtonal” sounds, which explore musical intervals smaller than the conventional octave, and deliberately discordant, off-tempo beats that defy traditional time signatures. “It’s a celebration of chaos,” Gordon explained, emphasizing the rebellious spirit that permeates the game’s themes. He aims to push the boundaries of distortion, seeking to find the balance between musicality and extreme sound manipulation.
The cyberpunk setting has also inspired Gordon to incorporate synthesizers into his compositions, albeit with a more intentional approach than the clichés often associated with the genre. “I want the synths to feel alive and tangible, reflecting the grimness of the cityscapes within the game,” he noted, highlighting the importance of creating an immersive auditory experience.
Unexpected Inspirations
In an intriguing twist, Gordon revealed an unexpected source of inspiration for his work on Defect: the 1990 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie. He cited a memorable scene in which Shredder’s crew recruits children through video games and skateboards, evoking a nostalgic late ’80s and early ’90s vibe. “There’s a unique energy in that scene that I’m trying to capture,” he said, drawing parallels to the record scratchy, ’90s hip-hop aesthetic that he aims to weave into the soundtrack.
As anticipation builds for Defect, Gordon’s innovative approach to the soundtrack promises to offer a fresh auditory experience that complements the game’s dynamic gameplay. While a release date has yet to be announced, interested players can already wishlist the title on Steam, eagerly awaiting the fusion of music and gameplay that Gordon and Palalic are crafting together.
