For our very first episode of the Composer Magazine Podcast, we spoke to the composer behind Us and Get Out on reuniting with Oscar-winning director Jordan Peele and figuring out the sound for their new pop nightmare, Nope.

Chatting to our host Charles Steinberg at his LA-based studio, Michael shares his perspective on the different sounds of strings, the indisputable horror of rabbits, and the surprise that often comes when watching the finished film, as well as his other initiative outside of scoring: the Composers Diversity Collective.

This interview is spoiler free, so whether you’ve seen the film and are eager to learn more about the creative process behind the score, or simply want to whet your appetite before you watch — sit back, listen and enjoy!