Super Mario Bros: Koji Kondo’s 8-Bit Masterpiece
8/13/202533 min
From the springy jump sound to the iconic Overworld Theme, the sound of Super Mario Bros. is instantly recognizable. With just five lo-fi audio channels and 40 kilobytes of space, composer Koji Kondo created a soundscape full of unforgettable melodies. In this episode, we explore how Kondo’s playful instincts, rhythmic trickery, and love of jazz fusion defined the sound of Mario. Featuring Kirk Hamilton of Strong Songs and Thomas of Thomas Game Docs.
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Transcript preview
First 90 secondsDallas Taylor· Host0:01
Before we get started, I want to tell you about my latest YouTube video, where I take you behind the mixing board of a new movie called Sketch. The film is a coming-of-age sci-fi adventure. It's funny and emotional and a little bit scary at the same time. And my sound agency, Delfacto Sound, the team behind this very podcast, mixed and sound-designed the entire film. To memorialize this, I filmed a behind-the-scenes video in the state-of-the-art theater where we completed the mix on the Belmont University campus in Nashville. In the video, you'll see my absolute thrill of mixing this film in Atmos. You'll hear from the director, Seth Worley, about the sound design challenges, and learn just what it takes to get a film soundtrack ready for a big international release. This one is extra special for me. It's a rare glimpse behind the scenes at Delfacto Sound, and a glimpse into the theatrical mixing process like you've never seen before. To see it, just head to my YouTube channel, dallastaylor.mp3. You can also see it in bite-sized pieces on my Instagram and TikTok channels, which are under that same name, dallastaylor.mp3. Thanks. One of the coolest things about modern technology is how easy it is to connect with people anywhere in the world. And with Riverside, you can capture those conversations in crystal clear quality, whether it's a video or audio podcast, a virtual class, a work meeting, or just a long-distance chat with family that you want to save