WHAT to Listen to

TRAP (C64)

The title tune sounds even more impressive alongside the Gladiator demo, hidden in the game (type

DEMO on the high-score table) and published separately as publicity for Compunet (where Ben had the handle BENN). The synchronised animation tells a sad story, with the gladiator pounding his drum in time.

the Last NINJA (C64)

Sharing composing duties with Anthony Lees (who passed away in 2016), Ben created memorable tunes for System 3’s first ninja game. The Wastelands (loader and in-game) and Wilderness (in-game) compositions really set the tone. hearing Ben perform them live (on flute and penny whistle) with the band Fastloaders was incredible.

AUF Wiedersehen Monty (SPECTRUM 128K)

Ben was equally adept with all the 8-bit computers and would go on to compose for 16-bit. This tune was composed jointly with Rob hubbard, at Gremlin’s request. The 128K-only Spectrum interpretation with its mysterious-sounding introduction holds up well against the C64 and Amstrad versions.