Entering game-music composer Richard Jacques’ home studio is akin to entering a space station that happens to have its own sound track. The amount of buttons, knobs, sliders and any number of other complicated looking equipment that adorns the studio is quite mind-boggling.

I had been invited to join Richard in his studio to witness him putting the final touches to the soundtrack for The Club. Of course I jumped at the opportunity, not only to get away from my desk but also to meet a living SEGA legend.

Richard slides around on his exec chair with the ease of a man who not only knows what he is doing, but is also very good at doing it. I am thankful for this as I have no idea what is going on.

The first track to go under scrutiny is one of the most complicated. Layers of bass, beats and percussion come together to create a heart stopping track. The game itself is hooked up to the sound system and Matthias, Bizarre Creations sound engineer, plays through a level with the music in full swing. The synergy between the level and the music is plain to see.

The track is intense and relentless. I can best describe it as the love child of the Blade and  Matrix trilogy sound tracks. The fact that all three of us are sitting here rhythmically nodding our heads in appreciation of the beat tells me it wouldn’t be out of place in a top London club.

Richard and Matthias listen intently, like they’re trying to hear a pin drop during the rush hour at Victoria Station. The skills involved in achieving this are quite impressive to watch. Listening for every sound in the mix and tweaking them to within an inch of their lives.

I like my music as much as the next man, but this attention to the fluidity and detail of a track is both impressive and slightly intimidating. It truly does give you a new level of appreciation for the work that goes into a game sound track.

Once all the slight changes had been meticulously recorded, Rich hits the play button (I know this button at least) and it all makes sense. My opinion now is that all games should be played through studio speakers, by law. The sound is amazing and the layers in the music you can hear simply can’t be picked up by simple TV speakers. 5.1 surround sound? Yes please!

I spent most of the morning in the studio. All I can say is I didn’t want to go back to the office one little bit. I now want to sit in that studio all day mixing and remixing until I have created the perfect track. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have some beats to break.