'We Needed To Do Something That Would Subvert Expectations': An Interview With Ryan Lott And Chase Combs About Marathon's Incredible Soundtrack
Aftermath • • technology
Key Points:
- Marathon has become a major hit within Aftermath's office and community, praised not only for its gameplay but especially for its distinctive and immersive soundtrack.
- Composer Ryan Lott joined the project early, inspired by the game's concept art and narrative, and collaborated closely with audio director Chase Combs and Spider Farm to create a unique, unconventional score blending score and sound design.
- The soundtrack features innovative use of the human voice as an instrument and heavily manipulated piano sounds, supported by advanced technology like the Osmose MPE synthesizer, contributing to its haunting and visceral atmosphere.
- Both Lott and Combs have been thrilled by the positive reception, noting that many listeners enjoy the soundtrack independently of the game, which is rare for video game music.
- The creative process emphasized discovery and experimentation, with Bungie and collaborators fostering an open environment that allowed Lott to push musical boundaries and deliver a score integral to Marathon’s identity.
