Martin Galway
The SID chip's orchestrator
Martin Galway brought cinematic ambition to C64 soundtracks, creating iconic themes for Ocean and beyond.
Overview
Martin Galway was one of the defining voices of the SID chip era. Working primarily for Ocean Software, he composed soundtracks that treated the C64 as a serious musical instrument—Wizball, Times of Lore, Parallax—proving that game music could be ambitious, emotional, and technically sophisticated.
Fast facts
- Started young: began composing on the C64 as a teenager in Belfast.
- Ocean years: joined Ocean Software and became their go-to composer for prestige titles.
- Signature style: rich chord voicings, smooth bass lines, and an ear for melody that felt more pop than chiptune.
- Later career: moved to Origin Systems in Texas, working on Wing Commander and other PC titles.
- Industry shift: transitioned to audio direction and sound design as game music professionalised.
Notable soundtracks
- Wizball (1987): dreamy, melodic themes that matched the game’s surreal visuals.
- Times of Lore (1988): orchestral aspirations on 8-bit hardware.
- Parallax (1986): pulsing electronic soundtrack that enhanced the shooter’s intensity.
- Arkanoid (1987): a cover of the arcade original that showcased Galway’s arranging skills.
Technical approach
Galway’s music stood out for its harmonic sophistication:
- Chord voicings: used the SID’s three voices to create full chords rather than simple arpeggios.
- Filter sweeps: employed the SID’s resonant filter for expressive, evolving timbres.
- Composition-first: prioritised musicality over showing off technical tricks.