Portishead’s Geoff Barrow Says ‘Gone’ Composer Admits Ripping Off His ‘Devs’ Score

Why It Matters

The allegation underscores growing concerns over intellectual‑property protection in television music, where uncredited copying can damage reputations and trigger legal challenges.

Key Takeaways

• Barrow claims Harry Escott admitted copying Devs cue for Gone
• Instagram post shows side‑by‑side comparison of the two scores
• Director Richard Laxton allegedly rejected an alternative composition
• Accusations add to Barrow’s past disputes with Lil Pump and The Weeknd

Pulse Analysis

The controversy shines a light on the often‑overlooked world of TV scoring, where composers craft atmospheric soundscapes that become integral to a show’s identity. Barrow’s *Devs* soundtrack, created with Ben Salisbury and The Insects, earned praise for its eerie, electronic textures, making it a benchmark for sci‑fi drama music. When a cue from that work appears, almost unchanged, in a different series, it raises questions about the informal practice of using "temp tracks" as creative shortcuts.

In the case of *Gone*, Barrow alleges that Harry Escott not only replicated the Devs cue but also disclosed the similarity to the series’ director, Richard Laxton, who allegedly dismissed the offer of a revised piece. If true, the incident could expose both composer and production to copyright infringement claims, a risk that has prompted tighter clearance processes in recent years. Industry observers note that while musical borrowing is common, outright duplication without credit or licensing can lead to costly settlements and damage to professional credibility.

Barrow’s public accusations are part of a broader pattern of high‑profile disputes that have rattled the music‑for‑media sector. His earlier grievances with Lil Pump and The Weeknd illustrate how sampling controversies can spill into mainstream media narratives. As streaming platforms continue to proliferate, the pressure to deliver fresh, original scores intensifies, making robust IP safeguards essential. Stakeholders—from composers to network executives—are watching closely, aware that any misstep could set a precedent affecting future collaborations and the valuation of original compositions.