What are my thoughts on music, particularly video game music? What is my approach?
In general, my approach to music is fairly simple: I place a great deal of importance on melody. I think this aspect has been neglected lately. We remember the music from classic games mainly because of their melodies, not because of the atmosphere (yes, I know, Silent Hill…). Memorable melodies that stick in our heads and that we whistle along to when we're distracted.
But that's not easy to achieve. These days, everyone would love to create the new Super Mario (or its film equivalent, a new Star Wars or Superman). In fact, it may be the hardest task a musician faces: creating melody with its own personality, easy to hum along to and emotionally resonant.
Of course, that's only part of the picture: you also have to know when to set the melody aside and create mood, or base the music's appeal simply on rhythm or structure, or even create an unappealing melody on purpose. Despite everything, melody remains at the forefront of music, and my goal is to try to renew and strengthen it.
Again, it´s not easy, but it can be done. It is the part of music where creativity and craft are most needed. In every piece I compose, I try to develop a strong melody with its own character and flavour that meets the needs of the game. Without this, I can't start the work or be satisfied — to me, this is not just a job, this is personal ;)
See for yourself if I’ve succeeded in the examples I’m showing you. Anyway, bear in mind that this is just the beginning. The best is yet to come!
As you can hear, most of my compositions fall within the electronic genre. They range from the sweetest and most melodic to the most dynamic and rhythmic, and also include chiptune and other more experimental styles. However, I don’t believe in musical barriers, and I am extremely curious to explore its different colors, so I also plan to start making music with more traditional instruments soon.
Ultimately, it's all music; the only difference is whether it's good or bad.