Control Resonant composer Petri Alanko on the art of musical storytelling

Petri Alanko, the composer behind the score for Control Resonant, recently discussed his creative philosophy regarding video game music. Describing a score as an "emotional vessel," Alanko emphasizes his duty to represent a game's narrative in the most beautiful light possible. However, he also believes that music must stand on its own, independent of the game's events. Alanko revealed that he occasionally introduces creative contradictions between the music and on-screen action, noting that such dissonance can be "really delicious" and humanizing. By blending his personal artistic enjoyment with the responsibility of supporting the developer's vision, Alanko aims to create a deeper connection with the audience. He views his role as a service to the story, intended to make the experience more approachable while occasionally reminding players of their mortality through subtle, contrasting musical cues. Control Resonant is currently available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.