A Conversation with LucasArts composer Michael Land (Monkey Island / The Dig / iMuse)

Join Daniel Albu as he sits down for a 3-hour conversation with the legendary LucasArts composer, Michael Land!
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Michael Land is a composer and sound programmer, best known for his work on LucasArts' adventure games, particularly on The Dig and the Monkey Island series!
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Welcome to Tech Talk with Daniel Albu!
Join game developer Daniel Albu as he tracks down and talk to, the actors, writers, directors, developers, and composers from all your favorite retro games from the 90's and beyond!
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Tech Talk with Daniel Albu is part of @ConversationsWithCurtis!
And Conversations with Curtis is a member of the Adventure Game Hotspot Network!
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[@DukeLukeProd]

It is very rare for an interview of this length to have all of my attention throughout the playing time. As an obvious kindred spirit, you asked exactly the questions I wanted Mr. Land to answer, and never before have we gained so much insight into this particular hero's journey. THANK YOU Mr. Albu for bringing this gem to us. It saddens me that I've only got 40 minutes left

[@danielalbu]

Thank you so much for the kind words! The entire reason I started this Tech Talk series was because I always felt like these legends are constantly being asked the same questions over and over again. And I wanted to hear all of the stories they have yet to share with the world.

[@DukeLukeProd]

@@danielalbu Totally, with Mr. Land it was particularly sad because the resources were very scarce and nobody seemingly cared enough to scratch more than the surface. So funny, the image you mentioned (the one with the timpanis), was the only one you could find of him online for a looong time. Because of this I always imagined him as this very withdrawn, contemplative character (really nice in this world of big egos and little substance) - Which he somewhat confirmed in this interview. But as you were as a host, he was a superb guest and I wouldn't mind you guys doing a part 2 🙂

[@DukeLukeProd]

I'm just babbling away now - but as one of the community questions addressed - There's really this blaring absence of an actual conducted orchestral Michael Land piece/soundtrack. And recently as I was playing the MI theme on the piano for the nth time - this Hans Zimmer-esque version of it materialized in my head (In much the same way the LeChuck theme came to Michael) - and you know what - it sounded so great it should exist 😄

[@danielalbu]

@@DukeLukeProd In addition to Tech Talk with Daniel, I have the Techs Play series in which I bring back people I’ve interviewed for a Let’s Play session of one of the games they’ve worked on. This allows us to continue the conversation in a more casual setting and also allows the guests to talk about every minor detail we see on screen and many other things that don’t usually come up during a regular conversation. So, if there would be a part 2 of sorts, what would you like us to discuss?

[@DukeLukeProd]

​@@danielalbu YES! A real treasure trove you've been building there, hats off to your ability to win these wonderful people over for long form. About a Michael Land part two interview, whew. I didn't really say that with anything specific in mind. BUT I would've probably wrung out all I could have about the CMI soundtrack - which, I would say, was almost the same leap in quality MI2 made since MI1. I mean - the barbery coast, blood island altogether. The perfect blend between accordion, steel drum and harpsicord - if he had any template for that, and so on. I have a feeling one could tickle out quite a few more anecdotes by showing him even more game scenes (with music of course) - which is an inspiring and decelerating device you're already using. Anyway, if there were to be another one with him I'd happily contribute a few (more thought out) questions.

[@DominiqueGraussKahn]

The fact that he wrote LeChuck's theme while taking a leak is the anecdote that will stay in my mind the most.

[@enilenis]

Michael's childhood is almost identical to mine. I got a 2 octave electronic organ, and spent a ton of time playing with it. Also went to piano school and also quit, and only then became a "musician". I did not choose music for a career. It's just a hobby, and even though I played Sierra and LucasArts games since the 80's, I only got my first soundcard in 1997. By then, I have already decided that I was going to do computer graphics for a living. Back when Michael was making his masterpieces, all I had was a PC speaker.

[@evanlynch9221]

Daniel, it meant a lot to hear how often you listen to The Dig soundtrack. Like you I have listened to it regularly since the game's release. It has always and will always be my favorite album of any kind. It does not get near enough credit, especially considering how often games have tried to imitate it since. It meant the world to me to hear Michael Land talk about. I can't thank you enough for this interview.

[@danielalbu]

Saying that The Dig soundtrack is underrated is an understatement. It's an overlooked masterpiece! The Dig soundtrack is my go-to background music when I'm preparing for my conversations and during the editing process itself. Just as it has been my go-to background music when I was studying for finals a few decades ago... In the intro I said that Michael's music is the soundtrack of my childhood. But it's more along the lines of being the soundtrack of my life. I'm glad you enjoyed the interview and I'm glad to hear that you're a fan of the soundtrack! ❤

[@Hand_Banana_No]

I listen to the soundtrack to the Dig almost daily as well. I remember playing the game back when it was released and the music just blew my young mind.

[@araknieretro]

And to think that i discovered his work from Herc's Adventures a game that i mistakenly bought because i thought it was the Disney Hercules, but ended up loving it anyway, in no small part thanks to the music. Don't worry i'm catching up, slowly but surely i'll play them.

[@patryksg]

Oh my lord! The monkey island theme is a tune that can and will always cheer me up when I feel down. What beautiful music Mr. Land has created!

[@BaskenmannZwei]

Damn, I remember searching the Internet for Michael Z Land over twenty years ago and finding nothing, let alone a video interview. Thanks!

[@danielalbu]

You're welcome! Thanks for watching!

[@apanloco]

Thanks so much to both of you for this interview. Everything was so well prepared, it's obvious there was a lot of work behind it. This interview filled some kind of vacuum for me. Now I know so much more about this true legend that has had such an impact on my life.

[@danielalbu]

Thank you for the kind words! I’m glad you enjoyed the interview!

[@tacticalintelligencesystems]

Thank you both for the fantastic interview. As mentioned, to this day these classic game musical scores still trigger goosebumps along with evoking feelings of joy and warmth. They are such a huge part of what made the games so timeless. And what a wonderful comment to Daniel at the end. Thank you Daniel for being a wonderful ambassador for these arts and for all your hard work.

[@danielalbu]

Thank you for the kind words ❤️ and thanks for watching!

[@-Tristan-]

I don't know much about music theory but I do know, that Michael Land dropped a bomb in all soundtracks history. The whole Monkey Island soundtrack is FANTASTIC. 30 Years later and I still love this tune. Thank you so much for your work. Also, besides the already excellent title song, Woodtick and Bootique, brilliant... just brilliant. 👏👏🎉🎉🐒🌴

[@BleepBloopVM]

Great one Daniel, this was probably the one I waited the most for. Thanks, from the bottom of my heart :) Finally, some info about the musicians playing on the COMI score!

[@danielalbu]

Thank you for the kind words, I’m glad you enjoyed it!

[@BleepBloopVM]

If anyone's interested, here's a clip of Michael Spiro and Paul van Wageningen (respectively percussions and drums for the same score), playing together: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gHilqaWFrJmDi9E

[@nevertoolate5325]

David Lowe was based in Yorkshire UK, I played a gig with him and worked with his daughter. He had some involvement with Revolution - maybe Steel Sky?

[@CTFlyer7]

This is one of the most enjoyable interviews I've ever listened to.

[@danielalbu]

Thank you for the kind words ❤️

[@Al_Bauer]

For me, Michael Land and John Williams shaped my childhood‘s soundtrack. Thanks for the interview

[@danielalbu]

Thanks for watching!

[@crazy_straw]

This is one of the very few video contributions by Land, and it was really motivating and invaluable, so thank you!

[@danielalbu]

Thanks for watching!

[@scionga]

The dig 2 is happening I'm so exited 😊

[@danielalbu]

Here’s to hoping…

[@-Tristan-]

Is it?

[@evanlynch9221]

This is the one I wanted the most. Can't wait.

[@danielalbu]

And this is the one you'll get! ❤

[@moffit_reborn5029]

Another fantastic interview, touching on so much gaming history with great stories, perspectives, and technical practice. I listened through this interview twice to get it all, but it was well worth it. I'd love to get the link as well to the Israeli composer that orchestrated the Indiana Jones soundtrack as well. I love how Michael Land mentioned specifically how great ideas came out of the blue (or yellow if you're at the "composer's urinal" ), and not necessarily when you're focusing on them. It reminds me of when you'd take a test in school and couldn't think of an answer because you were trying too hard. Yet, the minute the test is over and you step outside the answer just comes to you. Great job to both of you spending your time on this. Thank you!

[@danielalbu]

Thank you for the kind words and thanks for watching (twice!). Here's the list to Nissim's work: kzbin.info/aero/PL6mRkfQtL8yi8PQLIkkacJKutQAfMgeC8

[@ashitanomighty]

I'm discovering the human side and tons of new stories of all the videogames legends I grew up with. Thanks for these videos

[@danielalbu]

Thanks for watching!

[@luchoardila]

Maestro! Genius, composer of the music of my favorite game of all time: Monkey Island

[@tomastroncoso9464]

Legend. The Monkey Island score was genius. I have to listen to the Dig music now. Unrelated, another soundtrack that comes to mind that had some moving moments was the one for Mass Effect

[@danielalbu]

I uploaded The Dig soundtrack to the Conversations with Curtis KZbin page a year ago. You can check it out here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmXVY5xshJl2gassi=b3hJZHHonqCmrami

[@azrhyga]

Great conversation!! I like it a lot!!

[@danielalbu]

I'm glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching!

[@azrhyga]

You're welcome!! @@danielalbu

[@LGH152]

Great video. He‘s one of the greatest game music composers I know, and still he‘s so nice and uncomplicated! :-)

[@danielalbu]

Couldn't agree more!

[@scionga]

Great thanks so much

[@Panzer_the_Merganser]

1:51:32 I know Land credits Wager for a lot of the inspiration for the fantastic Dig soundtrack, but right around here is a sample from Vaughan Williams Fantasia on a theme of Thomas Tallis, which is a magnificent piece in its own right. kzbin.info/www/bejne/n5nbZn95e5asgLssi=XPfKGEO1Bvah5iAI Great interview, BTW!

[@danielalbu]

Nice catch! I'm glad you enjoyed the interview!

[@Panzer_the_Merganser]

@@danielalbu Thanks, and until this video I thought I was the only one that looped The Dig OST. Even still have my copy of the Angel Records CD.

[@kangelidis]

Awesome!!!

[@gummifer]

Yes!!

[@davidjeffries9562]

These interviews are great, but some timestamps would go a long way - I wanted to recheck a detail, but I can't rewatch 3 hours to hunt down a specific question

[@danielalbu]

I totally understand, unfortunately, with my weekly release schedule, I don’t have enough time to add timestamps. I’ll get to it as soon as possible. In the meantime, you can always use the transcript to find something (that’s what I sometimes do). Thanks for watching and thanks for the feedback!

[@danielalbu]

If you still can't find what you're looking for using the transcript, let me know. I'll send you the timestamp.

[@davidjeffries9562]

@@danielalbu I found it, thanks!

[@negrastormentas2865]

♥️

[@alexgeo1159]

Would be interested to know if he is willing to work again on a monkey island remake, not sure if this was mentioned I listened first 2 hours only.

[@danielalbu]

We discuss the special editions at 02:21:00

[@alexgeo1159]

​@@danielalbuThanks, it must feel good to interview all these legends

[@danielalbu]

@@alexgeo1159 It's truly been a privilege to talk to these legends who've been extremely generous with their time, enabling me to engage in 3, 4, and even 5-hour conversations with them!

[@skRapKlan]

Sometimes Daniel's interview technique can seem like hes pressuring for some golden goose (but its not a reveal or any unraveling) and other times Daniel just shovels on with tride and true queries that never really go anywhere.. I really wish Daniel was more in flow with the conversation instead of reading questions of a sheet.. I Don't mean to seem harsh but its the best way I can describe the interview technique! Please bring me more of these legendary interviews, man!

[@danielalbu]

Thank you for your feedback. In my interviews, I strive to delve into each guest's professional journey, exploring not only general career aspects but also delving into specific areas that captivate my interest about them. I make it clear to my guests beforehand that they have the flexibility to respond as briefly or expansively as they wish, and I refrain from pressuring them to elaborate on topics they may prefer not to discuss. Unlike some other interviewers, my approach involves minimal interruptions, allowing my guests the freedom to narrate their stories at their own pace. While posing questions is part of the conversation, my primary focus lies in capturing the entirety of their narrative, emphasizing the details they choose to share. The length of my interviews often surpasses the conventional duration, averaging around 3 hours and extending to 4-4.5 hours in many cases. This contrasts with the more typical 1 to 2-hour interview format. So, if you find that my conversations may not delve deeply enough or cover the specific range of inquiries you seek, I wonder if there are any interviews out there that do... The motivation behind starting this series of conversations stems from a desire to break away from the repetitive questioning prevalent in interviews, where these amazing individuals are often asked the same set of questions repeatedly, focusing narrowly on familiar projects rather than appreciating the entirety of their distinguished careers. That said, I thank you for your feedback and I hope you'll join me for future conversations.

[@skRapKlan]

@@danielalbu I really enjoy your intervjue style - I don't not mean to knock it in any way - you are doing an amazing job at this! But at the same time I would love to see you grab the conversation on hand a bit more rather than just reverting to your written questions - as you often do.. If I was your backup man I would tell you to be a little more "free-handed" when it comes to the interview.. Treat it more like a conversation and not always revert to your script - as you're doing..? There were so many places where you Mr.Lowe was talking about interesting stuff and you didn't mind and went onto the next question in the book... That might be good for pacing and keeping a tight interview (and I noticed the cuts all around to clean stuff up) but still I feel like there was a lot more room where Mr.Lowe mentioned interesting stuff and you didn't pick up on it and brought that conversation further like I had hoped to.. Still this was an amazing interview and I thank you so much for even getting the opportunity to do this! YOU ARE AMAZING!!! And thanks for the work you put in...

[@Federelli1]

Pee anecdote is the best anecdote

[@skRapKlan]

Quit the rigid structure coming from the strict musical school system - THATS when you learn how how to play for yourself... From there on its on your own, man... Its a beautiful place of amazing teachers out there! I'm glad I learned from a tiny little room in Norway with my dad and brothers playing around with guitars and keyboards!

[@CTFlyer7]

How is this guy 62?

[@danielalbu]

I know, right?!

[@CTFlyer7]

@@danielalbuMy girlfriend was like, "Hey that guy is hot" lol!!!