Bryce Dessner discusses composing the score for Apple TV+’s historical crime thriller ‘Manhunt,’ centered around John Wilkes Booth, describing it as a marathon-like endeavor. He also mentions working with Taylor Swift, calling her a “genius,” and hints at new projects in the works, including collaborations with St. Vincent.
Unpacking Bryce Dessner’s Journey in Scoring John Wilkes Booth Thriller ‘Manhunt’
Bryce Dessner, the talented composer and guitarist, recently sat down for an interview with Billboard to discuss his latest scoring project, ‘Manhunt,’ a historical crime thriller set in the aftermath of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination. Dessner, known for his work with indie rock band The National, delves into the intricate process of creating the music for this seven-part series premiering on Apple TV+ on March 15.
Dessner reveals that his passion for the Civil War, shared with his twin brother Aaron, has always been a driving force in his musical endeavors. From naming National demos after Civil War battles to infusing American folk traditions into his compositions, Dessner’s connection to this period in history runs deep. For ‘Manhunt,’ he faced the challenge of capturing the intense chase of John Wilkes Booth by U.S. Secretary of War Edwin Stanton, likening the experience to “running a marathon seven times” due to the emotional weight of the storyline.
Bridging Historical Tragedy with Musical Brilliance
In his quest to encapsulate the tragedy and impact of Lincoln’s assassination, Dessner expertly weaves together orchestral elements with subtle electronic touches. By incorporating instruments like strings, brass, fiddles, and banjos, he creates a rich tapestry of sound that immerses viewers in the post-war era. Dessner’s meticulous attention to detail even led him to acquire a vintage Gibson guitar, highlighting his commitment to authenticity in the project.
The soundtrack for ‘Manhunt’ showcases Dessner’s versatility as a composer, building on his previous work in films like ‘The Revenant’ and ‘A Good Person.’ Through the strategic use of instruments like the cello as Booth’s sonic motif, Dessner adds layers of depth to pivotal moments in the series. The haunting presence of the cello underscores the tension leading up to the fatal gunshot at Ford’s Theatre, enhancing the dramatic impact of the narrative.
Collaborations and Musical Revelations
Beyond his work on ‘Manhunt,’ Dessner continues to explore new musical horizons with friends and fellow artists. His longstanding collaboration with St. Vincent’s Annie Clark, dating back to their time playing in Sufjan Stevens’ band, remains a source of inspiration and creative exchange. Dessner’s enthusiasm for Clark’s latest single and upcoming album underscores the camaraderie and shared passion for music that defines their relationship.
Dessner’s involvement in Taylor Swift’s ‘Folklore’ and ‘Evermore’ albums further showcases his versatility and keen musical sensibilities. As Swift gears up for the release of ‘Tortured Poets Department,’ Dessner hints at the singer’s genius and the exciting artistic direction of her new project. His contributions to Swift’s work highlight the collaborative spirit that infuses the music industry and the magic that emerges when creative minds come together.
Looking Ahead: A Musical Maestro’s Ongoing Journey
As Dessner reflects on his recent musical endeavors and the intense creative period that led to two back-to-back albums with The National, he remains focused on the future. Despite the whirlwind of activity, Dessner and his bandmates are already back in the studio, channeling their energy into new music and fresh ideas. The prospect of diving into the creative process once again fuels Dessner’s passion for music and his unwavering dedication to his craft.
With each project, collaboration, and musical exploration, Bryce Dessner continues to push boundaries and redefine the intersection of history, storytelling, and sound. His ability to infuse emotion and depth into his compositions sets him apart as a musical maestro with a profound understanding of the power of music to evoke, inspire, and captivate audiences. As ‘Manhunt’ premieres and new musical horizons beckon, Dessner’s journey as a composer and artist unfolds with boundless creativity and unwavering passion.
