Select Page
Breaking the Mold: John Paesano’s Unconventional Approach to Superhero Music.
May 01, 2022
invincible poster

Breaking the Mold: John Paesano’s Unconventional Approach to Superhero Music

Within the vast expanse of superhero cinema, where bombastic themes and grandiose orchestrations reign supreme, composer John Paesano dared to challenge convention. With a keen desire to innovate and redefine the sonic landscape of superhero storytelling, Paesano embarked on a creative journey that would see him crafting a score unlike any other, free from the constraints of tradition.

Paesano’s foray into the world of superhero music began with a simple yet audacious question: What if superheroes were scored not with bombastic fanfare, but with subtlety and nuance? It was a question that would set him on a path of exploration, leading him to break free from the established norms of the genre and forge his own sonic identity.

At the heart of Paesano’s approach was a deep understanding of the characters and narratives he was tasked with scoring. Rather than relying on clichés and tropes, Paesano sought to capture the essence of the heroes and their journeys in a way that felt authentic and emotionally resonant. This meant eschewing the familiar motifs and symphonic flourishes often associated with superhero music in favor of a more intimate and character-driven sound.

One of the hallmarks of Paesano’s unconventional approach was his use of unconventional instrumentation and sonic textures. Drawing inspiration from a wide array of musical genres, from electronic to folk, Paesano crafted a sonic palette that was as diverse and eclectic as the heroes themselves. The result was a score that defied categorization, blending elements of rock, jazz, and classical music into a seamless tapestry of sound.

Central to Paesano’s approach was the idea of musical storytelling — using music not just as a backdrop, but as an integral part of the narrative itself. Each character, each moment was given its own distinct musical identity, with themes and motifs evolving and intertwining as the story unfolded. This approach allowed Paesano to infuse the score with depth and complexity, drawing listeners deeper into the world of the heroes and their struggles.

Perhaps most importantly, Paesano’s score was driven by emotion. Whether capturing the exhilaration of a heroic triumph or the anguish of a personal loss, Paesano’s music always struck a chord with its raw, unfiltered emotion. It was this emotional authenticity that resonated with audiences, elevating the superhero genre beyond mere spectacle and into the realm of genuine human drama.

As audiences continue to flock to theaters and streaming platforms to experience the latest superhero adventures, John Paesano’s groundbreaking score serves as a reminder that there are always new frontiers to explore, even in the most familiar of genres. By daring to break the mold and forge his own path, Paesano has left an indelible mark on the world of superhero music, inspiring future composers to push the boundaries of creativity and imagination.

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes composer John Paesano explains how he went ape with his soundtrack

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes composer John Paesano explains how he went ape with his soundtrack

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes resonates with bestial power, from its photo-realistic performance capture effects to the layered sounds of the various ape factions that tear across the screen.

Much of the film’s visceral impact owes itself to composer John Paesano who was compelled to mix and match a host of musical styles stemming from the classic Apes franchise.

We caught up with John to discuss his approach to the movie, his collaboration with director Wes Ball and what it meant to acknowledge his compositional predecessors.

Echoes of Goldsmith: John Paesano’s Nod to the Original Themes in ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ Score

Echoes of Goldsmith: John Paesano’s Nod to the Original Themes in ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes’ Score

“Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” marks composer John Paesano’s first foray into the Apes franchise. Following in the footsteps of Jerry Goldsmith (“Planet of the Apes”), Michael Giacchino (“Dawn of the Planet of the Apes”) and others, he knew he’d have big shoes to fill. The first thing he thought about was the “musical legacy as well as the “giant music” associated with the scores.

Echoes of Evolution: John Paesano’s Musical Odyssey in ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

Echoes of Evolution: John Paesano’s Musical Odyssey in ‘Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

As “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” prepares to take audiences on an unforgettable journey, John Paesano’s score stands as a testament to the power of music to elevate storytelling to new heights. With each soaring crescendo and haunting refrain, Paesano guides us through a world where humanity’s past collides with its future, leaving an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape.

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 – Original Video Game Soundtrack Release

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 – Original Video Game Soundtrack Release

Much like its 2018 predecessor Marvel’s Spider-Man, Spider-Man: Miles Morales is getting a physical release of the game’s music in the form of double vinyl.

Both of Insomniac Games’ Spider-Man titles have been generally well-received by critics and fans alike, garnering high Metacritic scores. Spider-Man: Miles Morales has avoided the dreaded sophomore slump, so much so that many fans of the game believe Miles Morales deserves a full Spider-Man sequel.

MUSICAL WEBS: THE ART OF SCORING SPIDER-MAN WITH JOHN PAESANO

MUSICAL WEBS: THE ART OF SCORING SPIDER-MAN WITH JOHN PAESANO

When Insomniac Games set out to develop their ambitious Spider-Man series for PlayStation, they knew that capturing the essence of such a beloved superhero would require more than just stellar gameplay and stunning visuals. The music, too, needed to be exceptional, serving not only as a backdrop for Spider-Man’s adventures but also as a narrative force in its own right. Enter John Paesano, the award-winning composer tasked with this monumental challenge. His scores for the PlayStation Spider-Man games have become some of the most iconic and celebrated in the video game industry, thanks to his unique focus on melodies and storytelling through music.

Navigating the Sonic Maze: Exploring the Music of the Maze Runner Trilogy

Navigating the Sonic Maze: Exploring the Music of the Maze Runner Trilogy

The Maze Runner trilogy, comprised of “The Maze Runner” (2014), “The Scorch Trials” (2015), and “The Death Cure” (2018), captivated audiences with its gripping storyline, compelling characters, and adrenaline-pumping action. However, one aspect that often flies under the radar but significantly contributes to the trilogy’s immersive experience is its music.

Capturing Tesla’s Spark: How Did John Paesano’s Score Illuminate the Inventor’s Electric Legacy?

Capturing Tesla’s Spark: How Did John Paesano’s Score Illuminate the Inventor’s Electric Legacy?

John Paesano’s score for Michael Almereyda’s film “Tesla” ingeniously captures the essence of the inventor’s electric legacy. Drawing inspiration from modern classical composers, Paesano’s innovative approach electrifies the screen, resonating with Tesla’s groundbreaking discoveries. Through sweeping strings and pulsating rhythms, Paesano’s music illuminates Tesla’s visionary genius in a captivating symphony of sound.

BAFTA Games Awards: John Paesano Takes Home Top Music Prize

BAFTA Games Awards: John Paesano Takes Home Top Music Prize

For his work on Miles Morales, Paesano won the 2021 BAFTA for Best music in a video game. Composer John Paesano, who returned to score the game after delivering an epic soundtrack for the first installment, doesn’t disappoint in the second outing either, this time mixing hip hop beats with the grand orchestral sound of the original.