Cue the Score is a podcast for those who care about story and atmosphere. Each episode explores how movie, TV, and video game music communicates character, world, and emotion. Breaking down what the score is telling us.
If you’ve ever felt a soundtrack hit you emotionally but couldn’t explain why, this podcast helps you hear it more clearly.
In this episode, we examine and explore the music of Stranger Things Season 5.---------------------------------------------------GET THE VINYL!Stranger Things Season 1 - Vol. 1: https://amzn.to/4bRhWbAStranger Things Season 1 - Vol. 2: https://amzn.to/45tjrJdStranger Things Season 2: https://amzn.to/3Z0n3yIStranger Things Season 3: https://amzn.to/4qFtFOZStranger Things Season 4: https://amzn.to/3Z0V6qsStranger Things Season 5: https://amzn.to/4r9rDXm
3 Feb 2026
16: Expedition 33 Blind Reaction
In this episode of Cue the Score, we experience the music of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 for the first time in a blind reaction, focusing on identifying recurring themes and motifs as they appear.We concentrate on main character themes and a select few location themes, listening for melodic, harmonic, and textural ideas that may form the foundation of the score. Because this is a first-time listen, our discussion captures real-time analysis and speculation, without knowing how these themes may return later in the soundtrack.Check out the Clair Obscure Expedition 33 Vinyl!https://amzn.to/4jZcbKVPlay the game!PS5: https://amzn.to/3ZNcsYaXBOX: https://amzn.to/4rn32OUSTEAM: https://amzn.to/4kewpAI
2 Feb 2026
15: Composers React | Hollow Knight Silksong | Part 2
We’re diving back into the music of Hollow Knight: Silksong. As composers, we react to Christopher Larkin’s haunting new score and explore how it weaves mystery, emotion, and storytelling into every note. From echoes of Hallownest to Hornet’s fierce new sound, we break down how the music hints at the world’s secrets before you ever see them. If you love discovering the deeper meaning behind game soundtracks, you’re in the right place.Play The Game!Xbox (digital code): https://amzn.to/4c2sV20Switch (digital code): https://amzn.to/4roJM3C
31 Jan 2026
14: Composers React to Silksong’s Haunting Music
We’re diving into the music of Hollow Knight: Silksong to uncover what’s hidden beneath the surface. As composers, we react to Christopher Larkin’s haunting new score and explore how it weaves mystery, emotion, and storytelling into every note. From echoes of Hallownest to Hornet’s fierce new sound, we break down how the music hints at the world’s secrets before you ever see them. If you love discovering the deeper meaning behind game soundtracks, you’re in the right place—welcome, Score Scholars. 🎶
Play The Game!Xbox (digital code): https://amzn.to/4c2sV20Switch (digital code): https://amzn.to/4roJM3C
29 Jan 2026
13: Composers React: Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom soundtrack hides more than melodies — it hides meaning. In this episode of Cue the Score, we explore how Nintendo’s composers used harmony, silence, and ancient motifs to tell a story that pulls you in.Join us as we break down the musical language of Tears of the Kingdom — its emotional cues, recurring motifs, and subtle storytelling — and uncover why Zelda’s music is so effective.Check out the Zelda BOTW Vinyl: https://amzn.to/3LBZmtAALSO ON:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cue-the-score/id1812116518Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6C8s1qRLYtxd0h8g7aAFe5?si=Rr4kLdgxTVuadCmRJb8sEA
28 Jan 2026
12: TRON: Ares Soundtrack Reaction
They’re calling the TRON: Ares soundtrack one of the best soundtracks of all time… but is it really? In this video, we’ll find out together. 🚨🎶We’re doing a blind reaction to the full score — no spoilers, no prep, just pure first impressions and even play a game where we try to guess what scenes each track might be used for in the film.But that’s not all — once TRON: Ares hits theaters, we’ll release a second video where we check our guesses, see how well the music worked in context, and give our final conclusion on the soundtrack.
27 Jan 2026
11: Why Elven Music Feels Timeless
Visit Middle-earth as we explore The Music of the Elves in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit! 🎶 In this episode of Cue the Score, Paper Wings dives deep into the breathtaking soundscapes of Rivendell, Lothlórien, and Mirkwood, uncovering how Howard Shore’s iconic score brings Elven culture, lore, and mystery to life.
GET THE VINYL!
LOTR Fellowship of the Ring: https://amzn.to/4ad2MfD
LOTR The Two Towers: https://amzn.to/49X9TY7
LOTR: The Return of the King: https://amzn.to/4q0BSwg
26 Jan 2026
10: Gondor VS Rohan | Music of Men | Lord of the Rings
Discover the epic music of Men as we look at Gondor and Rohan in Howard Shore’s legendary score for The Lord of the Rings. In this episode, we break down the noble themes of Gondor and the bold, folk-inspired sound of Rohan. From the grandeur of Minas Tirith to the rolling plains of the Riddermark, explore how Shore used leitmotifs, instrumentation, and harmony to bring the cultures of Men to life.
______Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. We are making such material available for purposes of criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, or research. This constitutes a 'fair use' of any such copyrighted material as provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law.
25 Jan 2026
9: Kpop Demon Hunters Soundtrack Blew Us Away!
We’re diving into the Kpop Demon Hunters OST with a music reaction and breakdown! 🎶 From its powerful themes and emotional melodies to the cinematic energy that drives the story, we share our insights as composers while exploring standout tracks from the soundtrack. Whether you’re a K-Pop fan, K-Drama lover, or just curious about the art of scoring, this reaction is the perfect way to experience the Kpop Demon Hunters soundtrack with us.______
CHAPTERS:---------------------------------------------------0:00 - 2:33 - Intro2:34 - 13:25- How it's Done13:26 - 27:36 - Golden27:37 - 35:42 - Your Idol35:43 - 49:13 - What it sounds Like______
Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. We are making such material available for purposes of criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, or research.This constitutes a 'fair use' of any such copyrighted material as provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law.
25 Jan 2026
8: Final Fantasy Boss Music Tier List
Join us as we rank all the Final Fantasy regular boss themes in this tier list video—from the tense SNES-era riffs to the grand, cinematic showdowns of later entries. We dive into the driving beats, the hype factor, and which tracks truly make you feel like you’re up against something dangerous (but not too dangerous). Expect some nostalgia, plenty of debate, and probably a few hot takes that will rile up longtime fans. Whether you’re here for the music, the memories, or just some fun sibling banter, come hang out with us—and don’t forget to share your own boss theme rankings in the comments!
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CHAPTERS:---------------------------------------------------0:00 - 2:16 - intro2:17 - 4:24 - FF14:25 - 6:46 - FF26:47 - 8:33 - FF38:34 - 12:49 - FF412:50 - 17:00 - FF517:01 - 20:52 - FF620:53 - 25:24 - FF726:02 - 30:26 - FF830:27 - 35:18 - FF935:19 - 42:17 - FF1042:18 - 45:53 - FF1145:54 - 51:30 - FF1251:31 - 55:45 - FF1355:46 - 59:24 - FF1459:25 - 1:03:46 - FF151:03:47 - 1:09:16 - FF16
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Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. We are making such material available for purposes of criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, or research.
This constitutes a 'fair use' of any such copyrighted material as provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law.
24 Jan 2026
7: Final Fantasy Battle Music Tier List
Join us as We rank all the Final Fantasy battle themes in this tier list video—from the classic chiptune tracks to the modern orchestral bangers. We share our favorites, debate the iconic songs, and probably upset a few fans along the way. Whether you’re a longtime FF fan or just love great video game music, join us for some fun sibling banter and nostalgic vibes. Let us know your own rankings in the comments!
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CHAPTERS:---------------------------------------------------0:00 - 1:58 - intro1:59 - 5:17- FF15:18 - 7:28 - FF28:47 - 11:17 - FF311:18 - 14:03 - FF414:04 - 16:51 - FF516:52 - 24:00 - FF624:01 - 29:59 - FF730:00 - 32:38 - FF832:39 - 35:36 - FF935:37 - 38:11 - FF1038:20 - 43:05 - FF1143:06 - 46:18 - FF1346:19 - 49:43 - FF1449:44 - 53:11 - FF1553:12 - 55:32 - FF16
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Fair Use Disclaimer:This video may contain copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. We are making such material available for purposes of criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, or research. This constitutes a 'fair use' of any such copyrighted material as provided for in section 107 of the US Copyright Law.
2 Sept 2025
7: FF Mystic Quest / Music Spotlight
Join Rhett as he shines a spotlight on the music of Final Fantasy: Mystic Quest, a soundtrack that’s far more powerful than the game’s “beginner RPG” reputation suggests. In this episode, he highlights standout tracks, shares his personal memories of battling with these tunes in the background, and he digs into trivia about the soundtrack’s unique rock-inspired style. Lets rediscover why this hidden gem of a score deserves a place in the Final Fantasy musical legacy.
2 Sept 2025
6: Final Fantasy Battle Theme / Tier List
Join Seth and Rhett as they rank every mainline Final Fantasy battle theme, from the very first note of the NES era to the orchestral showdowns of the modern games. In this lively tier list episode, we revisit each track, debate their merits, share personal memories of epic victories (and crushing defeats), and reveal surprising trivia behind the compositions. Watch our reactions as we decide which battle themes reign supreme — and which ones barely make the cut.
9 Aug 2025
The Music of Gladiator
Join Seth and Rhett as they journey through the epic music of Gladiator, exploring the film’s powerful score scene by scene. In this deep-dive episode, we highlight standout tracks, share personal memories tied to Hans Zimmer and Lisa Gerrard’s unforgettable work, and uncover fascinating trivia about the soundtrack’s creation. Watch our reactions to key themes and learn why this score remains one of the most stirring and influential in modern cinema.
30 Apr 2025
4: Super Castlevania 4 Music-Part 4
Join us as we review the music of Super Castlevania IV, going through the entire game level by level. In this fourth part of a four-part series, we analyze standout tracks, share personal stories about the music's impact, and reveal trivia about the game’s composition. Watch our reactions to key themes and discover why this soundtrack is a must-listen for both fans and newcomers
30 Apr 2025
3: Super Castlevania 4 Music-Part 3
Join us as we review the music of Super Castlevania IV, going through the entire game level by level. In this third part of a four-part series, we analyze standout tracks, share personal stories about the music's impact, and reveal trivia about the game’s composition. Watch our reactions to key themes and discover why this soundtrack is a must-listen for both fans and newcomers
30 Apr 2025
2: Super Castlevania 4 Music-Part 2
Join us as we review the music of Super Castlevania IV, going through the entire game level by level. In this second part of a four-part series, we analyze standout tracks, share personal stories about the music's impact, and reveal trivia about the game’s composition. Watch our reactions to key themes and discover why this soundtrack is a must-listen for both fans and newcomers
30 Apr 2025
1: Super Castlevania 4 Music-Part 1
Join us as we review the music of Super Castlevania IV, going through the entire game level by level. In this first part of a four-part series, we analyze standout tracks, share personal stories about the music's impact, and reveal trivia about the game’s composition. Watch our reactions to key themes and discover why this soundtrack is a must-listen for both fans and newcomers
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