N G M T '13 - Round 2 Voting!

[SkyeWintrest]

And welcome back again to the second round voting for the NGMT! (Don't know what the NGMT is? Wonder no more. Also, thanks, Step)

I'll not be difficult and long-winded, I'll get right to the submissions! (and hope that the embeds work this time, damnit)

Feel free to use this set to go through all the submissions in a row or use the embeds below.

Track 1
Track 2
Track 3
Track 4
Track 5
Track 6
Track 7
Track 8
Track 9
Track 10
Track 11
Track 12
Track 13
Track 14
Track 15
Track 16

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VOTING RULES:
1. You may not vote for your own piece.
2. You get a single vote. Not two, not five, you're not ranking them from "favorite" to "made of ant turds", you're voting for your favorite. No more, no less. Also, Step & Echo have 1 vote to divide among themselves since they double-teamed the rest of you.
33. You MAY change your vote, but please try to listen to all of them and decide your favorite before spitting out "I LIEK DIS ONE" five times.
47. Refrain from saying who made what piece, whether true or false. If you do, then your piece and theirs will have to be disqualified. :( Basically don't try to ruin the contest please.
52. You may not vote unless you submitted something this round, so only... @CDMusic @Malifex @Jernemies @SourJovis @Deflektor @InYourDreams @bassfiddlejones @Step & @Echo @DivoFST @ZipZipper @frootza @Neon-Bard @SilverPoyozo @Chongo @alternativesolution @johnfn Only you guys can vote. Also hooray for simple ways to remind everyone that voting started.

You are highly encouraged to PM one of the hosts your vote, but you can post it in the thread too.
Similarly, you are highly encouraged to leave some feedback on all the music (or just some of it). After all, mutual feedback is a good thing. :) You're likely to get some, so why not give back to everyone too?

Restating the prizes again:

Victory in a phase: A speshul signature and high quality reviews from all hosts.
1st place overall: A super-speshul signature, frontpaging a piece of your choice, and an awesome $75!
2nd place overall: A marginally less speshul signature, frontpaging a piece of your choice, and a sweet $50.
3rd place overall: A somewhat-cool signature, frontpaging a piece of your choice, and a still-cool $25.
The top 3 and bottom 5 pieces of each round will get some reviews either way, as a reward for the top and as improvement help for the bottom.

Once again, special thanks to:

-deadlyfishes, for donating the prize money.
-Scott Rogers (Scottr5680), for his absolutely awesome artwork. Looking forward to seeing what the next round's image will be?

Your hosts (and I have enough characters to link to their pages this time, so you should totally become their fans!):
-Me!
-camoshark, AKA Mr. Invisible.
-Stunkel, AKA Mr. I-Can't-Think-Of-A-Clever-Name.
-Samulis, AKA Mr. Sleepless.

Any questions? Just ask and I'll answer them ASAP.

[SourJovis]

I like how at the beginning none of the links actually worked. Then they linked to soundcloud. And eventually all of the tracks are nicely embedded into the thread. It didn't even take additional posts before it got to work.

Trying to guess which is my own track by looking at the waves (clouds). I can't really.

16 submissions. That's only one less than the previous round. More than I expected. Good job everyone. I'll write a review for each track shortly.

[SkyeWintrest]

Yep. Things are running more smoothly the more I figure stuff out. :)

Hopefully eventually I won't need double-checking on stuff. That'd be nice.

[DivoFST]

At 6/7/13 09:11 AM, SourJovis wrote:
Trying to guess which is my own track by looking at the waves (clouds). I can't really.

I guessed mine in the second attempt xD
Fun game to play xD

[SkyeWintrest]

At 6/7/13 09:33 AM, DivoFST wrote:

At 6/7/13 09:11 AM, SourJovis wrote:
Trying to guess which is my own track by looking at the waves (clouds). I can't really.

I guessed mine in the second attempt xD
Fun game to play xD

You mean you guessed once about which one was yours and failed?

[DivoFST]

At 6/7/13 09:35 AM, SkyeWintrest wrote:

At 6/7/13 09:33 AM, DivoFST wrote:

At 6/7/13 09:11 AM, SourJovis wrote:
Trying to guess which is my own track by looking at the waves (clouds). I can't really.

I guessed mine in the second attempt xD
Fun game to play xD

You mean you guessed once about which one was yours and failed?

By looking at the waves and time only, yes i did fail once xD

[bassfiddlejones]

Yay! Also, when is this voting period over?

[PeterSatera]

All I can say is Wow guys...just wow. I don't envy those who have to decide!

[Neon-Bard]

I honestly can't get over how good these songs are, I don't stand a chance in this round! :)

[Step]

FEEDBACK PART 1

Track 1:
This has some good qualities and bad qualities. Great guitar playing, lovely punch in the drums, and some interesting composition. However, this track is entirely disjointed. The first part has literally nothing to do with the second part, including a terrible transition between them. The first part in itself doesn't feel that related to a biodome either, and only slightly hints at an alien invasion. There are some compression problems in the first part, and the crash is way too loud. The second part contains most of the interesting composition, and some lovely sounds, but the attack on each note doesn't lend well to the fact that you occasionally have fairly short notes in the melodies. Overall, a mediocre submission with potential.

Track 2:
First off, best use of that preset FL Studio sound effect from all of the incorporations of it that I've ever heard. Great, great ideas by the way. It was a risky move making DnB for a theme like this as opposed to something more atmospheric but this totally fits the theme. It's almost as if the dome's under attack over here, and the piano provides a wonderful atmosphere, even throwing in lovely doses of suspense later on. The drums are fine but a bit generic for this genre. My main problems with this are: variety and mix. The instruments often clash quite a bit, making it hard to decide what to focus on while listening to the particularly busy sections. This song is also pretty monotonous, especially that piano. Excellent ideas for the piano but man, it gets incredibly overbearing to listen to later on. Overall, great approach, excellent ideas, creative composition, yet questionable execution.

Track 3:
Did NOT expect this. This sounds quite happy haha. Somehow I can vaguely relate it to the theme though; it's as if outside there's a hostile environment with aliens and harsh conditions galore, and everyone inside the dome is having a blast, oblivious to all that. Some really cool composition and unique ideas, along with an awesome tom fill that comes in at various times during the drum line. I quite enjoyed this! That said, it's a bit monotonous not in the fact that it's repetitive but it's just a bit monotonous with little changes in mood, and it's fairly uneventful. But still, what the heck, an enjoyable piece overall with wonderfully original ideas!

Track 4:
Haha this made me laugh somehow. This is catchy! This is kind of reminiscent of an eccentric community of humans living together in a hustle-and-bustle environment of a dome in another planet I guess. Some excellent melodies, and some cool sounds like the bass and the mallet synth at 0:34. I'm honestly quite impressed by how you thought of a musical route like this. That being said, this is unfortunately far too repetitive. It's practically the same background played throughout with one "main" melody and one alternate melody that repeat themselves several times, not to mention that the last part is basically a copy-and-paste of the first part with no semblance of an ending. In a sense you've done a pretty lazy job on this track, with the cool ideas, sounds and melodies certainly not coming close to enough to redeem the unfortunately small amount of musical content this has.

Track 5:
Like most of the other contest submissions so far, this contains some excellent ideas. The sounds surprisingly fit well together, and it's quite interesting to hear the buildup gradually come together. This is also quite atmospheric, and from the tracks I've listened to so far, if I had to choose one of them to play in a game involving a biodome and another planet, this would be the one. I like how you used the guitar as well. Now, on the other hand, this is fairly boring unfortunately. It may be nice to have as a background for a game but on its own there's little in it that really pulls in the listener and keeps him/her interested, not to mention the track that it isn't really that long and the ending is pretty uninspired, without any kind of proper approach to it. Nothing stands out, but overall it's pleasant to listen to.

Track 6:
My favourite so far. This is absolutely excellent. I'm absolutely amazed how you managed to do all that guitar playing, production and composition in just 3 days. I love this. You have such an excellent blend between sci-fi and metal, complemented greatly by the awesome production value/sounds, and the composition is really great (I like your use of the mixolydian mode, if you did use it... which I'm not sure about because my ear sucks). Honestly, the only real downfalls of this excellent track are the fact that you really overuse that main melodic motif, the strings at the end feel kind of premature and the track is pretty short unfortunately. Having said that, you'd better submit this track to Newgrounds so I can download it after the contest is over.

Track 7:
What a fantastic intro. The atmosphere really works in that part and certainly conveys the environment of a hostile planet, but the whole track has a wonderful atmosphere. This is great; you're certainly a very talented composer. The sounds are excellent, by the way, and well-mixed. I love the ethnic feeling you portray in certain parts; somehow, coupled with the atmosphere you created, it certainly fits. This is a very well-rounded orchestral track overall, with a beautiful intro, a beautiful ending, and an excellent atmosphere throughout. I have some gripes with the mixing, however; there is the significant lack of low end, which would've worked so well with this track. Some of the drums like the ones at 1:18 are oddly dry, which is a mixing choice I'm quite curious about actually. Lastly, the buildup halfway through didn't really lead anywhere. Honestly though, this is such an excellent track otherwise.

Track 8:
Like Track 7 this has an awesome intro. Very cinematic and atmospheric, and the sci-fi sounds and textures fit beautifully. In fact, all of the sounds are great, especially the guitar, piano and trumpet, man (that is a trumpet at 2:35 right?). Maybe some of the strings are a bit synthy but thankfully they still fit. This has a significantly spacey mood that works well with the idea of a biodome, but gets all dangerous-sounding and suspenseful halfway through, which (as alternativesolution said in the previous thread) is a good representation of the theme. BEAUTIFUL climax at 2:49 after such a suspenseful buildup. Unfortunately, my main complaint is that this track feels as though it was made to be much longer. Some sections aren't given enough justice length-wise, mainly the intro. Great job overall though.

Track 9:
I sometimes wonder whether my track is on par with the rest in terms of creativity, and this track makes me wonder even more. You're a creative composer for sure, and not only that but the disturbing sound effects and voice add a really thematically-related element to the piece. Composition-wise, I feel that this was somewhat uninspired at points and at other points it was solid. Some of the sounds work very well in here. However, the biggest problem with this is that it can feel considerably empty at points. I was hoping for some more depth in a lot of parts, since it sounds like you don't have that many instruments going on at any point in time, which is a shame. This lack of depth made a lot of parts sound awkward. You've got some good potential, but work on the depth!

Track 10:
I'm pretty sure who made this one, haha. This is great. The vocals are well-sung, with awesome harmonies, and the composition is awesome. Not only are the lyrics relevant to the theme but so are the sounds you used. Honestly, there isn't much to say about this; it's just a great song. My complaints are that other than the vocals this isn't very memorable, and I would've also liked a stronger drum line, even if the one you have now fits. And wow, scat! What a great and well-executed idea. But yeah, fantastic work with this!

[SkyeWintrest]

At 6/7/13 10:02 AM, bassfiddlejones wrote: Yay! Also, when is this voting period over?

I knew there would be something I'd forget.

This voting period will be over on the 9th at 11:59 PM EST.

[Echo]

FEEDBACK TAIM

Track 1: First thing I noticed was that it's not particularly bio-dome related. It seems to lack that science fictiony feel that you'd expect from a bio-dome theme. Also the transition between the two sections needs some work, because it sounds simply like you cross-faded two songs, rather than joined together two sections into a unified track. Quality of instrumentation isn't bad, but the overall structure of melodies and such could use more work.

Track 2: Amazing atmosphere, nice use of effects to get the right feel. Mix is a bit off throughout, with instruments shutting out others, especially the piano. The piano melody also gets a bit annoyingly repetitive after a while, since it's basically playing the same thing over and over. A great drum-line, and the bass-line is also very well worked. The piece is pretty well structured, but could use some more variety in general to avoid it becoming boring.

Track 3: This piece is way too happy to fit into the theme. It sounds more like something from Mario than something from a post-apocalyptic type scenario. I guess it could fit in to the feeling on the inside, but still, way too happy. The execution isn't bad, you've got nice instruments, and a well worked atmosphere, just not one that matches the theme much. Also it does get a bit monotonous by the end, so a bit of variety in melodies, drum-lines, bass-lines, etc, wouldn't go amiss.

Track 4: Like track 3, this one is also a bit too happy, albeit less so. Aside from that, it is excruciatingly monotonous, especially the drum-line and the bass-line. They're basically the same thing repeated again and again for three minutes. The melody is better, but I would've liked more alternate melodies to answer it, other than one instrument playing a single melody. Also, what bothers me is that there is very little change in the flow of the piece, as in little to no climax and anticlimax from start to finish. Overall, what this piece really needs above all else is some variety, but other than that its a pretty good idea, and has potential.

Track 5: A good idea, and a good fit to the theme, particularly when the drums, guitar, and synth come in. I like the fugue like build up you created by adding more instruments at each repetition. Instrumentation is pretty well done, but harmony was a bit off at points, especially in the bassier notes. The piano notes were pretty good, and further aided the overall feel of the piece. It was still a bit repetitive at times, and also focused solely on a single build up that spanned the whole piece, rather than having a more varied flow. Still though, a very decent effort, but could use some more work.

Track 6: This piece is pretty high quality. The instrumentation is great, and it fits into the theme pretty much perfectly. It's also very well worked structure wise. You've got a good flow and feel going, and the general progress of the piece is what keeps it interesting throughout. I like the contrasting feels you managed to put in at certain points, as they kept the piece moving and interesting. The guitar melody is pretty catchy, and it provides the piece with a good tensiony and action-packed atmosphere. Kudos.

Track 7: Overall, a very good atmosphere, and one that fits pretty well into the theme. The quality of the instruments, and the structure of the piece, were both very good. The use of the strings mixed in with the background effects was pretty great, and the intro was incredibly well worked. I love the background melodies you've got going on, they add a dynamic texture to the piece, make it more listenable. What bothered me about the piece was that the build up was a bit anti-climatic. Since there were no bassy drums, it sort of lacked that punch to it that you'd expect to be going on from the melodies playing at that point. The cut off to the quieter outro was amazing though, and the piece was well wrapped up with that emotional conclusion. Nice work.

Track 8: This piece has a very nice mixture of synths and orchestral instruments, and uses both to great effect. The effects fit in with the piece very well, and help to create a very well worked atmosphere. The track also has a very good structure and flow, and a very space-like feel that fits in very well with the theme. However, the sections themselves seemed to end too quickly, before they could fully develop into what I expected them to. Still, a very well worked piece. Well done.

Track 9: A pretty well worked piece, good structure, albeit a bit too abstract at points. The voice in the intro was a nice touch, as were the sound effects, although I'm not sure what some of them were supposed to represent. The piece could have used some more texture at points, because it tended to sound a bit bland and empty. The strings were also a bit too whiny sometimes, and more middle tone instruments were generally a bit lacking. The drums could have used more work too. Overall, the piece has a good amount of potential, which it doesn't quite live up to at points.

Track 10: The vocals are probably what make this piece memorable. The lyrics are well written, and the singing voice is actually pretty darn good. Backing wise, the piece is pretty varied and interesting. Also, the vocals and instruments fit together pretty decently to make a very well structured piece. The piece fits the theme in general, with a well built up atmosphere. The scat solo was a nice touch. Overall, good work, and a very universally decent piece.

Track 11: Atmosphere-wise, the piece fits in with the theme very well. You've got a decent structure, and pretty well worked instrumentation, but sometimes I felt that the separate phrases playing together were a bit too detached from one another. Alternate melodies are supposed to build up the main melody, not play something entirely unrelated. Also, the single string note in the intro was a bit too harsh and overbearing. The piece was pretty well varied, and you had some nice ideas which kept the piece overally interesting throughout.

[Echo]

FEEDBACK TAIM CONTINUED

Track 12: This track was pretty much perfect theme-wise. It had the science fictiony feel, with darker hints and a well worked tension-packed background. The instruments used complimented each other very well, and made for a very interesting listen. However, I was a bit disappointed with the fact that the piece seemed not to go where I expected it to go. You had a fantastic introductory build-up, but it just didn't lead to anywhere, making for a pretty anti-climatic result. Other than that however, the piece is of a very high quality, well done.

Track 13: This track made me chuckle quite a bit. The voice at the start was entirely unexpected, but worked very well theme-wise. It reminded me of a more steam-punk idea of a bio-dome, other than the typical sci-fi concept. The static also seemed to hint at the fact that things like communication had fallen apart, which fits in very well with the idea of a Bio-dome. The instrumental section itself could have been longer however, and also could have used more of a link to the first section, other than sounding like an entirely separate piece.

Track 14: This piece reminded me very much of Portal, particularly the announcer voice. The cheerful nature of the introductory section contrasted very sharply with the next section, and the narration kept things very interesting. I love that the music was still an important part of the piece, despite the main focus being on the vocal work. Overall, a pretty unique piece, and an original take on the theme too, nice work.

Track 15: Above all, I love the voice. The instruments in the background, and the atmosphere, were both very good too, but the voice just gives the piece that special something. The track fits in with the theme quite well, but in some cases the themes and ideas could be a bit detached from one another, making some of the sections sound a bit scattered. I also noticed some minor flaws such as audio files cutting off abruptly, or small mistakes harmony wise, but overall the piece is of a decent quality.

Track 16: The piece itself is pretty darn great. I love the instrumentation, and the variety both harmony wise and flow wise. The piece keeps you hooked till the very end, and the dynamic texture is very well worked. You've got some great use of effects and synths, and once the drums and main melody kick in, the piece becomes pretty amazing. The use of the piano worked out very well in giving the piece more emotion. The only thing I can find to complain about, is that the piece is a bit too cheery for the feel, but I suppose that's entirely relative depending on how you interpreted the theme. Overall, pretty great work, nicely done.

[SkyeWintrest]

TEXT. WALLS AND WALLS OF TEXT.

It's larger than the OP... eesh.

[ZipZipper]

Disclaimer : I kept forgetting that we all worked within a very short time-frame.

(First Half of Zipper's Reviews)

Track 1 : I was at first thinking of an anime intro for a show about kids running amok within the biodome, definitely something with me and liking the guitars in this contest. But that transition is not connected at all. I mean, you fade out the first part in order to introduce the second part, which I think is weak transitioning. I understand the contrast here, I believe the first part was representing the dangerous outside world while the second part represented the inside utopia, but again it could have been tied together much better. I also thought each melody was very droning and monotonous for both parts. You had some really nice choice of instruments, but the way they were implemented was kinda meh. Of course I must say, the beginning with the guitar and drums was really cool and very clean and real. I liked your mixing actually, I thought it was great and pretty even.

Track 2 : Well I think you hit the nail right on the head with that intro. DnB is a great stylistic choice for this kind of theme. I liked your approach of mysterious and dark sounding. A couple of things, why were the drums panned so much to the left? I would think you'd want your drums to be centered and full, unless you're counterbalancing it somehow or panning it across the spectrum. It actually kinda annoyed me that they were only there, but it's not a problem that's hard to fix. I also thought it was a bit distorted by loudness. Other than that, you had a nice instrumentation and a cool theme that could have had more variations or something extra to help it along.

Track 3 : Okay well...this is different from what I think most everyone else would think for the theme hahahaha. A kind of dark humor in that within the biodome we prosper and have a good time while all outside the world is filled with nightmares, but we just ignore that. Very good palette of sounds that change-up throughout the piece. Sorry, just have to mention in the middle of this that I like that ritard since it just appeared while I was typing this. Oh and okay, now it got a little funky with that guitar strumming to represent how everything isn't always honey and roses. It's mixed well and has a hiphappy little melody. Actually, this is very good considering the time limit, how there's nothing really too consistent and it's always turning corners. I just think it's a strange path to take concerning the theme, but obviously justifiable in its own right.

Track 4 : Another different take on the theme. I like the Latin rhythm and the use of that kind of atmosphere with the melodies and synths hahaha I really like it with the synths. I'm thinking this would be something playing for the nightlife in the city of the biodome or a parade. Pretty cool groove, but there are some things I think could use improving. That one synth playing panned on the left is really strong, its position should be varied I think. Conversely, that choir playing the melody on the right was very weak, I think some reverb would be nice on it too. And lastly, I think the umm...togetherness of all the melodies going on was strange. They weren't dissonant but I don't know what other word I could use to describe it. But, it still holds its own and is sorta weird in relation to the theme, but I can find some connection to it.

Track 5 : Nice opening with the strings. This is good in that it shows the balance between the utopia and the dangers lurking outside of it. I liked when that synth appeared along with the drums. Some things I thought could use some help...the dynamic range of the instruments is uneven. Some instruments were much louder and present than others, which was sometimes startling. For example, the piano hits were sometimes harsh and the guitar sort of just appeared out of nowhere. The instruments sounded empty and I think could use some extra reverb and maybe heavier drums could have filled some of that emptiness as well. But you had a good choice of instruments and I think you had a good grasp on the theme and explained the origin of the biodome quite well.

Track 6 : Great shredding in the beginning, but that filtering really killed my perception in comparison to the quieter, ethereal synth going on in the intro. I'm thinking Shadow the Hedgehog is running through a level based on a biodome. But really in terms of the theme, this is a pretty cool interpretation. I think it shows both sides of the dome, the bustling inner city and the outer dangers. Sometimes the filtered noises and the guitar got very harsh in my opinion, but I suppose that's kind of akin to the style of music as well. Your drums were really nice in that they changed up frequently as did your guitar melody. I especially liked the end bit with the clicky percussion and the strings to represent a more serious side to the issue of what the biodome means. Overall, I think this is good but just needed a touch more attention to mixing, those highs were sharpish.

Track 7 : What's this? I'm arriving over the peak of the monster infested hills, having been trekking alone for weeks in search of salvation. And then...there it is. The biodome. Hahahahahaha, obviously a really nice introduction. Now I think this has got some nice storytelling, a trailer for the movie about the biodome and how a wandering survivor enters its walls thinking its a safe haven when really there's much more happening beneath the surface. This is quite a lengthy song as well, with a bunch of transitions. You filled in quite a lot considering the time limit. Hmmm...I think the strings needed more fullness at times...in fact I think the entire song is missing some fullness. Something to do with the way it was mixed? Anyways, you definitely took the straightforward route with the theme. An overall nice composition that I think needs fuller mixing and maybe some more reverb to really make it boom.

Track 8 : I feel like I'm in a cave...trapped like in a biodome? Sorta, but I'm seeing the underground cave city more than the surface domed city. Welp, extremely smooth transitions and a gigantic palette of differing sounds. I can't believe you threw this all together in the time limit. Wow that choir is nice 3/4 of the way through. I mean...what else can I say? Perfect mixing, interesting melodies and orchestral shifts in mood. But I really was not feeling a biodome. I was feeling something more primitive, before the construction of the biodome. The nomads who hid beneath the earth as the aftershock of the apocalypse settled, eventually rising up to begin their idea of a biodome. I suppose I was just expecting more modernity, I think it sounded more natural than unnatural. Perhaps my initial feelings pervaded my opinion too much, because of course it can be looked upon as the emotionless streets in the biodome where the poor remain trapped against their will.

[Step]

FEEDBACK PART 2

Track 11:
What lovely piano chords. This has some excellent composition (mainly those chords), although it's tainted by certain sections which simply have notes of the same length playing together, making them far less compositionally-strong. Not that I have much against melodies with equal note lengths, but in this case it often doesn't work. The intro could've been a lot better; I mean I like how atmospheric it is and that piano sounds great, but the "leave high string note/chord running" technique is used so much in orchestral music that whenever it's used it almost always sounds cheesy. Some sections sound entirely separated from each other, like the almost random introduction of the section at 0:44, with pizzicato strings that sound quite soundfont-esque for some reason. In conclusion, some good ideas and some bad ones. Decent work.

Track 12:
That intro gives me the chills it's so good. This track is certainly a good showcase of compositional and atmospheric talent. I love the sounds you used, the atmosphere, the composition... you clearly know what you're doing, and like Track 5 this would fit beautifully in a game related to the contest's theme. I appreciate greatly a lot of the stuff you've done here, like the atmosphere-building, the chords and the cool little things like the trill at 1:23, but unfortunately this does not go anywhere. It's as if you should've been given more time to fully develop what you're doing here, so the contest's harsh deadline did not do you well. That is the main problem with this, and a pretty major problem too, but this is still a super solid submission!

Track 13:
I don't think I'll ever understand why you put in that intro over there haha. The musical part that comes in afterwards has ridiculously good harmonies and a lot of great composition, along with the majority of the sounds being pretty awesome. However, it ends so soon! I don't quite get this track unfortunately. After an odd voice section that keeps getting glitched-out and bitcrushed, and just when it started getting good, it stopped. Why? Oh well, for the little musical content it has (keyword being little), this is great.

Track 14:
Just when I thought the tracks couldn't get any more creative, this one comes along and introduces highly well-acted speech, presumably by the composer himself. In a way, this is the track that fits most with the theme because it directly references it and creates a whole story out of it (and quite an awesome story at that, given the small amount of time you had to narrate a story). It's a shame that some of the voice clips at times, but that's just a little quirk. The atmosphere is surprisingly well-made during each of the different moods you present in this song. Unfortunately, musically this doesn't have much to offer. It would've been amazing if musically this track was amazing as well, and not just voice-acting-wise. Right now the music does its job, but doesn't really stand out.

Track 15:
Damn. I'm quite convinced that this has the best atmosphere out of all of the submissions. Some sections here are just incredible, such as 1:37 and 2:49. You very successfully create a contrast between the majesty of the dome and the hostile and barren environment on the outside. Melodically, this is very interesting, and at times you've got some pretty beautiful chords going on. Also, the guitar is just amazing. That being said, I think the general eccentricity of this track works against it at times. The flute, I feel, often doesn't fit, certain sections and transitions between sections are hard to follow due to them defying a lot of conventional techniques. This is often a great thing to do, but when it gets to the point that the track sometimes, albeit not for a long time, becomes hard to enjoy, I feel that it becomes a detriment. Also, right after the 2-minute marker, the there's an odd part of absolute silence - some sort of glitch? Anyway, overall, very impressive work.

Track 16:
Excellent. I'm very, very impressed by this. Such a wonderful video-game feeling, and unlike a good amount of submissions in this round, this has a lot of great ideas that ARE well-executed. Your production is spot-on, man! The mix is very airy/clean and yet with just the right amount of power put into it. Thank goodness I have a decent subwoofer; I can really feel that sub-bass. And thank goodness, this has mood changes! It's not always catchy video-game sections; some parts are more cinematic like the intro, other parts are more emotional like the piano, and then of course we have the catchy video-game music which is the main exhibition of this track, so to speak, and sounds brilliant. Not quite sure about that ending, I would've liked some more melodic content and how well it fits with the theme is uncertain, but this is otherwise considerably well-made!

[DivoFST]

My Reviews!

TRACK 1
I donâEUTMt like like how the drums sound in most of the track, specially the crash and toms..sound very bland in my opinion. The guitars are nice and have a good start into the music but then they become kinda repetitive and boring, the strings/Brass sound very dissonant at times.
The transition from the the first to the second section is unexisting, you glued 2 parts and hoped for the best.
The second section has some interesting things going on, and has a pretty good composing, I think it lacks something being added latter on to catch the listener attention.
It has the 2 parts of the theme and both are fitting so I think you caught the theme.

TRACK 2
Great intro, I love the way those sounds attacked my ears from all sides!
I like the futuristic approach to the theme since the Biodome idea almost instantly directs us to something that would happen in the future and not today.
The first section is really good but in my opinion the song loses much of its impact and some interest as time passes since it does not evolve a lot and a lot of the melodies/chords remain the same, 3 day deadline stuff im sure.
Regarding the theme I think you did a nice job mixing the Biodome and the dangerous ambient into 1 song but I would have preferred different sections.

TRACK 3
Very peaceful and chilled intro, gives a real feeling of calmness and happiness..in my opinion its maybe a bit too happy since the biodome is surrounded by hostileâEU¦stuff xDâEU¦so I think the happy tone went a bit overboard. The composition is pretty good, and I love the bass, pretty sweet bassline. Then again because of that same issue, I think that when you try to add some aggressiveness to the song it falls a bit short of how aggressive it should be.
The song is nice, the bassline is great, but I think things went to soft on the biodome and not hard enough on the hostile world.

TRACK 4
Futuristic approach once again, the intro is nice but a bit too long in my opinion,
I feel the song pushes too much in the same direction, it has a cool melody going on in the left ear xDâEU¦ but it gets pushed a bit too far and the song ends up being repetitive.
Regarding the theme I donâEUTMt really feel at all a Biodome or hostile world enough, it does have a futuristic feeling anyway.

TRACK 5
Nice intro, im feeling the hostile world and the despair in this song, the bass is awesomeâEU¦really awesome.
I like how you present us with a lot of different instruments in a short amount having their cameo appearance in the song.
Is a shame that the song seems rushedâEU¦once again 3 day deadline im sure.
The song is really good and certainly has potential (or had) to be the best in this round, but I feel that a song under 2 minutes is just way too short for that, things are being a bit bombarded in my face.
The theme was pretty well represented, I really feel the Biodome in the song and thatâEUTMs the theme, I can sense some sense of despair and hostile world but I would have like a more prominent part regarding that.

TRACK 6
Another futuristic approach to the theme, great intro builds up the first section nicely.
Love the guitars, nicely mixed and played!
This song reminds me of a battle field, and the aggressive guitars chords and solo make it feel a lot like a fierce battle.
The calm section seems a bit forced into the song, I think it would have fit the song before the aggressive part and not after.
I love the song, but it seems a bit short and has a weird ending
Regarding the theme, you certainly caught the Hostile World in your composition, the Biodome however I feel its lacking, and the part that probably was made to remind us of the Biodome feels a bit short and misplaced.

TRACK 7
Love the intro, really atmospheric..i found that bass coming in a bit loud and invasive.
The violins are really awesome, sound great and bring a new feeling of danger to the song, the composition is great and the mixing as well, everything is very clear.
Transition was great to the different section, more danger from the hostile world, I like it.
I cant really complain muchâEU¦maybe to much danger and not enough Biodome?
Great song!

TRACK 8
Love the intro once againâEU¦I love being attacked by that percussion sound, its just everywhere xD
I can feel some sadness and a really good atmosphere going on in this song also there is a true sense of danger in some parts.
Awesome song!

TRACK 9
Nice intro, gives a sense of a fake Biodome people are being more imprisoned than kept safe.
The theme seems well represented with a strong feeling of danger toward the ending and a first section directioned to a peaceful but almost disturbing place.
I like the song, it has however some bad transitions.

IT CONTINUES...

[DivoFST]

TRACK 10
Great composition has a futuristic sounding attribute.
The intro is great as the instruments are.
The vocals are really good in the song, I think you went a bit too low for your voice in some parts of the verse and in the chorus the word âEUoeBiosphereâEU sounds a bit forced, its too long to fit there. The lyrics are good but I must admit I expected them to be a bit more creative, it seems that you felt you should stick to the obvious and you prevented yourself from being imaginativeâEU¦like you are just explaining what a biodome is to keep it obviously in the theme.
I love the song by the way, im just trying to make a useful review.

TRACK 11
The piano has some weird effect, seems a bad use of reverb or something like that.
Actually the whole piece suffers from overuse of reverb.
I can hear some nice sections and the song actually seems pretty good bit it is mixed horribly.
I think the composition was pretty good, and the choir section sounds sweet, great choirs.
The section at 0:45 is really muddy and not clear at all.
I think you had a nice song here that was ruined by bad mixing choices.

TRACK 12
I like the intro, im feeling a strong sense of false hope.
I can relate strongly to a Biodome the whole song.
I feel it ends up being kinda too simple, you have great instruments and mixing in the song but I think something more aggressive should happen somewhere in the song to wake the listener up from the atmospheric song.
Great song!

TRACK 13
Great intro, I love the ideaâEU¦gives a pretty good idea of what your take is on the theme.
Unfortunately you didnâEUTMt have a song to back up that awesome intro..its just some notes being played during 30 seconds, it really cant be taken seriously in the contest against the other songs.

TRACK 14
Another vocal intro to the song, im actually surprised so many people used vocals in this Round maybe I inspired you all! xD (just kiddin)
I really like the story it tells, you were able to make the listener have a clear view of your Biodome and this piece is really enjoyable to hear to, I love the trip!
I feel the instrumental part are not as strong as it could be, and that hurts your chances in this contestâEU¦I do commend you for your unusual and awesome take on the theme, loved to hear it :D

TRACK15
That intro reminds of the soundtrack in the Silent Hill games (made by Akira Yamaoka), I love how creepy it sounds, I found the transition to the harp however a bit abrupt, things sound realy peaceful now and I think that the first part deserved a little more time to shine on its creppy way.
Man I cant really describe what this song hasâEU¦its..intriguingâEU¦I feel really drawn to its weirdness and sudden change of moodâEU¦..dude seriously whoever you areâEU¦if you are not inspired by Akira Yamaoka you are him xD
Amazing songâEU¦
Regarding the theme, I feel you went a bit too happy with the harp and although really freaking sweet I cant put the section that starts at 1:14 anywhere in the theme.

TRACK16
Love the intro, the rain gives a great feeling.
ItâEUTMs a pretty impressive composition with lots of work put into it, some great piano sounds and a very clear mixing make this song really enjoyable.
Regarding the theme, I cant really hear this song and envision a Biodome, the song sounds too happy and lacks the Hostile world completely.
Awesome song, but could have been made for another theme completely I cant identify it with a Biodome.

Im sorry for being harsh on the reviews but I find it more useful this way.
My favorite songs are 7, 8 and 10, I think 5 and 6 had huge potential but were cut by the challenge.
10 and 14 must be praised for how unique they are!

[alternativesolution]

Whoa, glad to see so many submissions! And what good ones they are! It is extremely hard to pick... It truly is a shame I can only give one vote :(

I'd also like to point out that the abrupt cut-offs at the beginning and end of the pieces are just a product of listening to the tracks as a set on SoundCloud. So I'm being extra careful to distinguish what ended well and what didn't... I know it messed me up during the 1st phase while I was listening.

PART ONE of my mini-review things (you know what if they just get too long I'll just end up posting it as a review anyway :x) :

Track 1 --> Whoa, the first part sounds pretty insane. Lively, and makes me think of the Earth getting destroyed. But...er, now there's a second part, which is not bad by itself...but...that's it. It's by itself! There was not a hint of any transitioning between the first and second parts. I think something as simple as a transition could have added to the score of this one. One thing I really do like is the mood you've set in either part. The second part makes me imagine a few people wandering throughout the dome, thinking back to the old days when the Earth was alive and well.

Track 2 --> Pretty great intro. Wasn't really expecting to hear much DnB for sure. So you've definitely got this 'despair at the outside world' thing going on. Fast, intense, and freaking out. I suppose this could take place while the dome is being built, to convey that sense of 'oh shit it's not safe out there let's hurry up and get inside' feeling. Don't know if I'm making sense though. Anyway, this track is not bad at all. Interesting sounds for sure.

Track 3 --> Immediately got a sense of happiness at the beginning. Makes me imagine the other take on this theme -not necessarily with the Earth being destroyed - but rather a new beginning on a different planet. Things are going great, people are getting along, and the mood definitely sets a 'new and exploratory' vibe. The guitar also adds that Earthy-vibe to it, reminding me of how settlers would bring their home with them wherever they go. So there's a bit of Earth on that planet now. Really great son.

Track 4 --> I think is a pretty fun-sounding track. The rhythms are very catchy and just nice-sounding. That little melody you have is pretty nice, too. The only problem is, I just really don't see how this fits the theme. If I had to try and make and fit, it would make it appear as if people are just going about doing their daily activities. But there's just no sense of that outside world - whether it be a destroyed Earth, or new planet with the harsh atmosphere.

Track 5 --> Not really seeing the theme here, either. Nice piece overall. Instrumentation is just good. Wish I could say more about this one, though.

Track 6 --> Pretty great piece! Really liking all the sounds. Overall very epic in nature. I love the guitar work to bits. >:D Solid intro and ending. Just very solid piece in general. I don't see how this one fits the theme, however.

Track 7 --> Wow, that was pretty anti-climactic halfway :p High quality instruments. I wish I could see some more of how this fit the theme though. I think there is something very lacking in this piece- I just wish I knew what it was. Nice instrumentation.

[Step]

We literally have a whole soundtrack for a biodome-related game here.

Track 1 and Track 6 for battle themes, Track 3 and Track 4 for victory themes, Track 5, Track 7 and Track 15 for general exploration themes, Track 10 for the menu theme, etc. We even have a voice actor (whoever made Track 14). It's perfect.

I also love how after the first post this thread had really short replies and then BAM, EXPLOSION OF TEXT.

[SkyeWintrest]

At 6/7/13 12:20 PM, Step wrote: We literally have a whole soundtrack for a biodome-related game here.

QUICK! CONTACT JAZZA!

[alternativesolution]

PART 2 ( I ended up writing more here than I intended, whoops )

Track 8
Intro. Yes. Very nice. Effects were used very well. And best of all, I see some nice melodies. This piece is similar to Track 3 in the sense that this one seems to be going for the 'biodome on a different planet'. Definitely feels science fictiony. High quality instruments. And oh man, I'm really liking the voices! They made this one something special, and gave it an 'outside looking in' feel rather than from the inside. So that was refreshing. Good ending! Probably the most cinematic sounding of them all, though that is not a determining factor. Piano is beautiful, and the atmosphere is just incredible! I can see the effort in this one. It's quite thorough. Whoever created this one had too much time on their hands :P Which is good for the challenge, I suppose.

Track 9
I'm kind of liking the minimalist approach in the beginning. The voice at the beginning was pretty good- I almost laughed. Great effects on it, as well! Gave that huge 'I'm standing right over you' feeling. I felt like I was on an outerspace-themed ride in an amusement park. The voice is just my absolutely favorite part. Right after that oddly-placed sound effect, however, things seem to go random after that. There were some cohesive parts, and some not-so; as for the most, it would be the beginning and the latter half of the song. Not really feeling those snares, either.

Track 10
Good vocals! As well as that simple guitar during the verse. Instrumentation was done very well. Unfortunately, I feel like the most creative part of the song - the vocals - completely detracted from the theme. The instrumentation alone could have made for a much more fitting submission, in my opinion. As for the music only, again, pretty solid piece. Impressive. Catchy melody in the background, especially! I really like that metallic effect throughout the song, as well. Really liking this one!

Track 11
I feel like this one didn't really go anywhere. The emotion at the end was a nice touch. This one doesn't seem to exhibit a very macro-level feel, however. The subtle effect toward the end was nicely done.

Track 12
I really like the subtleness of this piece, especially with those soft strings. I just don't see much of the harsh atmosphere that's supposed to be going on outside. Too repetitive in my opinion. Decent ending.

Track 13
That ended rather quickly. I think this one had definite potential. The distorted poor-quality radio at the beginning was a nice touch, and the voice definitely gave off a distinct old American cinema quality to it. A strong part of this was the subtle hint that says 'hey. EVERY SINGLE STATION IS SAYING THE SAME THING.' So that was a telling part to the story. However, the song part of it afterward was barely there! And the transition was nonexistent. I would have liked to see an extension on this one for sure. The sounds were very nice. I see this was one was finished out of haste. Of course this was a part of the challenge, so that's too bad.

Track 14
I do see a macro-level theme going on with those strings at the beginning. The best part about this piece is it's storytelling nature. Those bells after the guy goes outside could have used some reverb, to fit the rest of the instrumentation. The end was not very solid at all in my opinion. Musically, not very strong or memorable. Overall, a very unique take on this theme, I must say.

Track 15
Hm, I think there are some pretty interesting parts in this piece. I like that the theme at the beginning comes again toward the end, but in a slightly different manner. The near-silence right around the 2-minute mark was kind of chilling, when the voice is suddenly all I can hear! This piece has some pretty decent contrast. The transition right after that part at 2:00 though could use some work to connect with the next section. Although it's not too bad if you imagine a door suddenly opening to explain it :p More time and effort on this track could really connect everything together in a much better fashion, I believe.

Track 16
Nice atmosphere in your intro. This one had a definitely video game feel to it. Really nice rhythms and simple melody. I don't see any hostility from the environment in the one, either. Nothing in this piece makes me feel like I'm inside a biodome. A well-done track overall. Now here's something important: While the transitioning from the intro to the more upbeat part of the track was excellently done, I speak purely for the music; judging by the theme, it seemed to go off in a whole other direction. And then it just took off doing its own fun thing. Musically, a very nice piece.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Ah. Man, could someone just make a game already? Let's put these all in here. In fact, let there be a contest on who can successfully use the most of the submissions in a flash: Create a game or movie using as many of these tracks as you can. >:(

I mean really, this theme was so specific, it'd be awesome if some of these submissions could be put to good use :D

[ZipZipper]

Disclaimer : This is really tiring to listen to each one and give a decent response. This is why my vocabulary gets progressively dumber with the reviews here.

(Second Half of Zipper's Reviews)

Track 9 : Aheheheheh! A creepy voice! I love it! Don't try anything stupid! We can save you! Yes honey save me please. Alright well...kinda weird instrumentation and melodic lines. I honestly don't know what mood to feel in the beginning, but I guess it gets a little more clear as the song goes on. Nice creepy take on how the biodome is seen as paradise but is actually a prison that claims to be saving you from something when there's really nothing out there. The instruments, especially the drums, need some extra spice. The reverb you had on the voice is good and I think could be applied some to the instruments as well. Doubling on some instruments could be helpful too. I also thought the melodies were kinda weak but they were getting there. I think they needed some extra development. But overall, I love the creepys so good work!

Track 10 : Neat futuristic beginning. Oh look! Another voice! Though, it's pretty shaky at some points, but it's mixed nice at least. The lyrics were hard to understand sometimes and I wasn't sure what idea you were trying to convey about the biodome...or biosphere. Wait...I forget which one it is now. Was it biodome or biosphere? I've been saying biodome this entire time so whatever they're like the same thing. The backing track was cool but kind of cluttered. I liked how the bridge was setup with the whispering stuff happening and then the chorus being plucked alone. Overall, I think it's a cool idea doing the pop song approach to this theme, but it seems kind of difficult. I suppose you were telling the story of how someone wants to break out of the biodome, but I'm still unsure about that.

Track 11 : Well immediately I notice the mixing needs help. Dynamic range is kinda whack and you can tell instruments are distorting during that drum part. But strangely, the electronic elements sounded clean amidst the piano and all that, I think. Seems a little weird to have that cool drum part with the clapping and never having it appear again. Musically, I do think it fits the theme in a way, I liked the piano's melody and I really liked that choir part at the end. The main problem is just the execution of it. It sounds like...half mono and half stereo I think. I'm not quite sure I can really decipher what's technically going on, but you've got a good idea going and a good choice of instruments.

Track 12 : Calm, but moving. I do see the biodome shining in the sun and sitting in the valley. I really like the softness to this. For the first time, I feel like I'm viewing the biodome from the outside, endlessly questioning its motives and its mystery. Wow...just the simplicity and the consistency of this I think is amazing. Great instrumentation, though I think there could be some extra reverb or perhaps I'm just a reverb freak. I really like this one, there are a lot of slight variations that are almost unnoticeable because the transitions are so smooth. Really cinematic melody that I like, but would have liked it more if it didn't arpeggiate so much. Great choice in fading it in and out at both ends. Really nice work, I don't have anything else to say.

Track 13 : Oh God hahahahahahaha!!! I was hoping to hear something like this, but I did not think someone would actually do it. Looooved that beginning with the distorted ad. That really shows a mastery of sound design which is awesome! And then the little melody that came in was very nice and reminiscent of approaching the biodome, but I was expecting to hear more darkness and harshness with the second part, not something soft and halfly mysterious. I guess that was just wishful thinking, but your interpretation makes sense. We hear about the biodome, we are curious about the biodome, and then we finally approach the biodome. Or maaaybe, I'm thinking we hear that ad on a radio while struggling in the outside world, and then it transitions to the corporate head of the biodome industries were scientists rush around experimenting prototypes. Well, I really liked this one even though it's very short. It was a good teaser into the imagination.

Track 14 : Yaaaaay more voice acting! Though I think the voice could have been mixed much better in that opening announcement, but it was a nice touch to the music. Lol I really love the happy theme happening. Ooooo and then the dark side of the force yesss!!! I'm too excited writing this review I'm missing what you're saying, but I'm getting the general idea. It's a very different take that I think might be too literal for the theme, but I really liked it hahahaha. Although, it is a musical triathlon, so I guess this really isn't the right direction since you emphasize your voice acting and have the music merely supoorting that. It was well done for a voice demo, but musically it was too eventful in that it moved from event to event and wasn't really a song. But again, I did like that happy biodome theme anyways hee heeeee!!!

Track 15 : More creepy hooray! Wait...nevermind. I don't know what's going on anymore. Really, I think the opposite idea of the biodome is happening here; the outside forest and nature is on the inside of the biodome while a barren world is on the outside. That's actually a really interesting take on the theme, but you don't really incorporate the idea of the outside world that much I don't think. It's mixed well and has a good worldly feel to it, but maybe too much so for this theme. It sounds like you really adapted it to your own ideas instead of adapting to what the idea was, still a novel take on the theme which I enjoy anyways. Other than that, your instrumentation is very good and transitions were great. I liked the vocals being used here and how it connected part one to part two. Nice work, very rainforesty, but I don't think it had much to do with what the theme was describing.

Track 16 : It's raining. It's dark. I'm hiking through the forests desperate for shelter. And I look down into the valley to see the biodome glowing slightly. It is late at night so most people must be asleep at this hour. I approach the entrance to it and find...no one is guarding it? I think nothing of it and enter the doors to find...it is daytime in the biodome and the city is bustling! Yaaaay hahahahahah! That was my envisioning through the first half of listening to this. Obviously you've done some good storytelling here. It's mixed perfectly and the instrumentation flows and changes so effortlessly. Very videogameish...I actually see now in the last half of the song the title girl character running around town, all the color schemes are very bright and you simply make her skip really girly around the town to talk to everybody and the whole point of the game is just to talk to everybody hahahahaha. Really neat song that sheds an endless amount of light onto the biodome instead of mystery and darkness. I can clearly see the intentions of the biodome are good and that it really is paradise inside. Really nice song!

[Malifex]

oh my god there are so many good ones in here X_X mine doesn't stand a chance

not as experienced with music as most people here, so I'll just stare at the picture and decide which one fits it best

Track 1: This one's okay, but needs a little work. It doesn't flow very well (either too repetitive or too sudden) and could use better instruments, but it does sound like the kind of thing that could be awesome if given a longer period of time than 3 days.
And from a purely emotion based point of view, it doesn't fit the theme all that great.

Track 2: I really like the intro and the dnb/piano comp, but it seems a bit drawn out after the first main part. A bit more variation would have been nice on this one, because the beginning really was pretty great. As with the above, seems like it could have been really awesome with more than 3 days of work. Fits with picture pretty well though.

Track 3: Haha, this happy sounding track is pretty fun to listen to, and wouldn't do badly in a video game. It doesn't really fit the theme too well (unless the biodome is a place of wonder and magic as opposed to humanity's last stand in a post apocalyptic world), but I still enjoy it nonetheless.

Track 4: This is actually decently catchy, and like Track 3, wouldn't do badly in a video game. However, like Track 3, a bit too happy/energetic for my tastes in regard to this contest, and doesn't fit the theme all that well.

Track 5: Intro could have used a more harmonic minor (similar to those movie scores) but I still really liked what you were going for. Has a lot of potential but really at the moment has the same problems as some of the above, and it would help to try to make the stuff go together more smoothly. Fits with the theme well.

>and suddenly there appears to be a huge jump in quality right around here, signaling that I have no chance in this contest
Track 6: ...holy shiet this is freaking awesome. I'm loving the guitar and the atmospheric sounds mixed in, and the melody/harmony is amazing at the end. It could use a slightly smoother intro, but with more than 3 days that should be a cinch. I need to download this when it goes public. Fits with theme very well, makes it seem like the biodome is a gathering for badasses. I would vote for this if there wasn't better.

Track 7: Sounds perfect for the theme, an immaculate mixture of atmosphere and suspense; the instruments and the melody are pretty professional sounding for 3 days of work. I'm blown away by the beginning, but the leadup to the middle didn't do anything :< kinda just skipped to the quiet part, which is also very nice. Like a feeling that you're about to sneeze, but rather you just snooze. Still a great piece.

Track 8: And another song that tells me I have no chance in this contest :< I really love the feel of this song, and the beat is really really amazing. Downloading this as soon as I get the chance. Fits with the theme nicely. More short responses. Blown away. Not long enough (when that's a complaint you know it's good). 2gud4me >Going from pure emotion alone, this one wins for me... but in terms of the contest, not the winner :(<

Track 9: Love the atmosphere and the voice, especially the transition between happy and apocalyptic. Could have used a little better mastering (problem of only having 3 days I bet), but still is a pretty decently well made piece. Fits well with the theme.

Track 10: I can SMELL the work and thinking put into this. Loving the vocals and the effects, both mesh with the harmony very well. Fits well with the theme too. My only problem with this is that it doesn't sound powerful/atmospheric enough, but the base concept itself is very well executed.

Track 11: Could have used a better buildup, but I'm liking how it sounds. The violin got a bit screechy after a while, but the main part is pretty nicely done. Similar in structure to 2, and would make for a perfect song if 2 was combined with the variation/mood in this one. Fits the theme very well, and well made. Intro could use a bit of work.

Track 12: Love the mood of this song, and the sense of unease it brought, like the biodome is only a temporary measure against the outside world. Gave me chills. Fits horribly well to the point of it probably fitting the best of all the songs here, and phenomenally made. Could have been longer though.

Track 13: The intro was pretty well done (getting glitchy and staticky as it went on), but it could have ended earlier if it was going to be that abrupt, or led into the song longer to form an image of fake happiness. The latter part of the song is great, and the thing as a whole fits very well. Most likely the deadline was the main problem.

>>Track 14: Another song that gives me chills. Gives off a very Handsome Jack style vibe, with the crushed illusions of peace. Wins the contest for me, but loses its impact after the first listen.

Track 15: This is what I feel like Runescape would have if it was a sci fi game, haha. Liked this a lot, and fits the theme very well. However, it doesn't flow as well as it should due to the awkward volume in some of the instruments, but has a lot of potential.

Track 16: A very very very very very VEERRRYYYYYY well made song. I love this song so much. Gives me the chills. Downloading. Ohmygodyes.

For whoever made 6 7 8 12 16, can you guys PM a download link early :< if that's against the rules you can refrain but ohmygod I have to download those as soon as they go public.

[johnfn]

Some good stuff here :O

A lot of people took the theme in a way I wasn't thinking about at all!

Track 1: The first bit sounded like it had some wrong notes and the compression settings were a bit high, so be careful! My guess is that the first half is outside the biodome and the second half is inside the biodome. The transition is a bit weak yes. The second bit felt like it lacked some direction. The shredded guitar was fun though, work on that!
Track 2: This is sweet. I really like the piano riff, it's very creepy. I feel like the riff gets a little repetitive and it could do with some breaks. Thats my biggest complaint though, the song drives forward really nicely.
Track 3: Sounds like we're inside the biodome. Futuristic sounding with nice pad swells. Chord progressions are reminding me of RPG shops ;-) I hear some blues in there! The inclusion of the electric guitar was a surprise - I felt like it might be a little too sharp (too many high frequencies) for the rest of the song - and I feel like the instrument at 2:33 clashes with the rest of the song. It was fun though.
Track 4: The instruments, especially the weird synth in my left ear, sound pretty cheap. However the melody at 1:06 is a lot of fun, and better instrument choices could improve this song a lot. I'm not sure about the theme, unless you see the biodome as a groovy place. Pads at 2:09 remind me of chrono trigger. :-)
Track 5: Oh, I like this one a lot. Sounds very mournful. One complaint: the ending needs work. I bet you knew that though. And expand it!
Track 6: That was pretty sick! I'm very impressed with your mixing, the sounds come together really well! The one thing I want to ask is for more of a melody.
Track 7: Very nice composing. Sounds beautiful. I'll let the people that know more about orchestral talk more about it. :-) Loved the subtle vocals in the second half. I found myself expecting a climax that never came though.
Track 8: Holy crap, this sounds legit. And then the guitar. OMG. What are you using for that guitar. PM me after the contest or something. It's so beautiful. The beats are a delight. The climax is amazing. Stuff like this is what inspires me to keep working. Thank you, thank you.
Track 9: This one was really bizarre. The vocals are a pretty cool touch. I felt like the song lacked something melodically though.
Track 10: Funky futuristic sounds. But then we suddenly transition into a vocal part! First one in the compo! Try tossing a little reverb on the vocals, but I'm impressed! Lol @ the beatbox breakdown :D I'm not sure if the synths fit well with the vocals.
Track 11: Started out nice, but at about 1:00 it sounds like the sounds are all inside a tiny room, there's no crispness to anything! Unless we're supposed to be thinking that the sounds are coming from inside the biodome ;-) I like the melodies. Love the vocals at the end of the track.
Track 12: The waveform for this one is perfectly symmetrical lol. Starts out with some creepy pizzicato. Like it. Felt very creepy and understated.
Track 13: HA! First half reminds me of Fallout 3 :D:D:D Love it, plus the detail work with the static. Last bit was rushed but sounded really cool. Kinda reminded me of simcity music!
Track 14: Wow another spoken word entry. Pretty funny. Nice job getting the proper sound effects and spooky sound effects :-)
Track 15: Starts out with some creepy ambience. Then... harps and birds :D You are really emphasizing the 'bio' of the biodome. The whole song sounds very organic, even the funky bass. I thought the instrumentation was good.
Track 16: Another organic one at first. The 2 sections are kind of disjoint but I guess it's a sort of outside/inside biodome thing? The second half is the happiest biodome I've ever heard. Transitions in the second half are a little choppy. Melodies are fun though!

Nice work all. Enjoyed seeing all the different takes on the theme.

[SkyeWintrest]

Just thought I'd double check on this for people.

Please either PM us with your vote or make it clear in the thread that you're voting for the track, like:
My vote goes to track 17.

Saying this just in case people try to imply their votes in while they're commenting on pieces. Make it clear or it won't count!

[frootza]

Track 1: Pretty cool metal track, I feel like the leads sounded slightly detuned. The drums could have been written so sound more natural. Not entirely sure about the second half. Great effort!

Track 2: Groovy, despair, yet upbeat. I can imagine this to be the music playing if the aliens were crashing the Biodome. I grew tired of the quarter note pattern as it didn't change much, but there was a lot that could have been accomplished with some more variation.

Track 3: I feel snow, with the song. As if we are gently gliding down a snowy slope. It was seriously a REALLY good piece. (I actually listened to the entries in reverse order), and out of all the songs, I feel like this had most original musicality in it, I just didn't feel the theme being well represented.

Track 4: Me gusta. Yo quiero bailar. Haha, spanish aside. I feel like this doesn't fit the theme. But that doesn't mean it is a bad piece, at all. It seriously would work SO well in a game like Mario Party or something. I liked that it had a reggaeton mixed with quirky electronic.

Track 5: Fun song, catchy, but short.

Track 6: Rock! Excuse me for cursing, but I fucking loved this. That is all I can really say. I feel like it actually did fit the theme well.

Track 7: This was a great piece. I actually hear traces of futuristic space partnered with the naturalistic approach. Enjoyed the atmospheric textures.

Track 8: I heard a space theme here, but not much of a naturalistic theme. Still had a great production quality but I feel at the choral introduction, the choice of going straight to fortissimo was a bit much. Good cinematic style piece though!

Track 9: I'm shocked that this is the third voice acting piece. It appeared to carry more of a fantasy vibe throughout. It was certainly a good listen, and I enjoyed the various sound effects. The buildup was slightly anti-climactic, (could have created more tension with some string swells at the end).

Track 10: It was a good track to start in my opinion. The vocal intonation was in tune, but the diction appeared off but this gave the song a bit of character. The poetic lines themselves didn't match the musicality of the piece. For instance, the percussion or structure could have changed up when we arrive at the "biosphere" lyric. Really enjoyed the intro.

Track 11: A lot of cool work done on the atmospheric sounds which fit the theme well. An avant-garde composition structure which distinctly introduces the themes of hostility and peacefulness.

Track 12: Good production, although we lose the theme shortly after the introduction. The melodic loop chosen is heard in many cinematic works and I think a few change ups would have given it a much better vibe.

Track 13: Wait... Another voice acting piece? First of all, I really love whichever composer made this. The old school "Bioshock" (game) style announcement really gave it a nice touch. The staggered composition during the second portion was great too, and in it's own right fit the theme very well!

Track 14: I lol'ed at the voice acting. I really, really did. What a joy. The actual song was pretty solid too, it did remind me of a futuristic world where everyone was happy but the script definitely began to change that perception!

Track 15: Representation of the theme was very well done to begin. It was indeed creative in a sense that I don't normally hear the ideas presented in the song in this manner. I think I may have taken the track more seriously in it's attribution to the theme if the harp lines were exchanged with something else.

Track 16: While this was a pretty cool dance/atmospheric track, I don't hear the theme very well throughout the song.

[bassfiddlejones]

Track 1 - Not a bad idea for a track, but the execution wasn't the best. I liked the guitar playing, but simply fading the first half out without any transition isn't the most effective way of moving through a piece.

Track 2 - Neat beginning - I like the atmosphere. DnB isn't a bad approach to this theme by any means. I would have liked to see more variation in the track, however. There's a lot of good stuff sounds happening, but it's far too repetitive.

Track 3 - Not a bad track by any means. Perhaps inside the biodome? I'm not getting the "hostile" feel of the planet surrounding it. Doesn't fit the theme very well.

Track 4 - I'm definitely getting the "futuristic" vibe from this, but again I'm not feeling the theme here. The track is a bit repetitive - feels like a shop theme for a game or something like that. I can see this music fitting a niche, however, that doesn't do a lot of good for the biodome theme. The ending is a bit abrupt, but it looks like it's been made to loop.

Track 5 - Cool intro, I like the strings. Does a decent job of painting a "bleak" picture. I could see this being world map music for a game. While that's pretty cool, it sort of leaves the "biodome" part out and focuses on the wasteland, to my ears at least. Ending seems rushed.

Track 6 - Obvious talent here. I really like the guitar as well as the mixing, for the most part. Guitar riffs are tight, does a great job of painting the hostile portion of the theme - sounds futuristic as well. Great percussion. I'm guessing that part at the end was meant to be the "biodome" part, maybe? While this is a great track, I don't see it as fitting the theme in a holistic way.

Track 7 - Cool introduction, I love the chords - has some great atmosphere! Really paints a bleak/wasteland kind of picture. Great instrument sounds, they seem to be mixed pretty well. Good transitions, I can see the "story" of the wasteland and biodome here. Track isn't too "full" sounding, could use some more low end throughout and there doesn't seem to be a climactic point - very beautiful ending!

Track 8 - Again, very cool intro! Atmospheric and neat. Intro seems a bit long. Mixing is pretty good throughout. The bass/guitar around 1:21 don't seem to fit the rest of the piece. There are a lot of different sections here, but I don't get that "hostile wasteland" feeling until the middle (sort of). While this is a fantastic track, it sounds kind of "victorious" in nature, rather than depicting the struggle of a hostile environment and the "peace" of the biodome. Still, a great track!

Track 9 - Interesting ideas, not the best execution. I like the "announcer" idea, but mixed in with the music it doesn't seem to work very well.

Track 10 - Excellent production, very high quality. Mixing is great. Really good composition, lyrics sound well thought out. I'm not hearing the "normalcy" part of the biodome, but maybe that's the point - life as we know it might not be as peaceful as we think!

Track 11 - Really neat ideas - mixing is not so great. Too much of a flood of reverb. I didn't get the "hostile" feeling too strongly either.

Track 12 - Neat atmosphere, very nice minimalist approach. While I really like this track, I don't think it fits the theme too well. It would work well as a world-map kind of track for a game!

Track 13 - You know what, I'm actually really impressed by this. I didn't know exactly how I felt about this, but after a few listens it really grew on me. Excellent use of voice acting to portray the hostile world, and the music provides a great "biodome" feel. Well done. Way to think outside the box.

Track 14 - Well thought out, neat voice acting! Background music doesn't really do it for me. I like the idea a lot.

Track 15 - Awesome atmosphere. I really like the back and forth. Seems a little disjointed - nature sounds seemed odd to me, as did the singing. Still, great juxtaposition here. Good mixing.

Track 16 - Very atmospheric track, I like the rainfall sounds. Sounds a bit too "happy" to me overall. Still, very good mixing and production. Also, seems a bit disjointed as a whole.

Great job everyone! I seriously mean that. Really looking forward to the results!

[lasse]

exam season is ending, is it worth entering #3?

[SourJovis]

Here are my reviews:

Track 1: Good guitar. The drums weren't too great though. Too artificial. Didn't like the sound of the kick and the toms. The crash was too loud. The snare was okay. The fade out was strange. I liked the feel of the second part. The melody wasn't great though. Didn't stick. The notes seemed a little random to me. Perhaps they were well thought out, but I couldn't really discover the structure. The samples sounded quite good.

Track 2: Has that futuristic feel. I like the sweeps and other sound effects. Nice reverb on the piano. The drums were a bit tame. Could've had more impact, to separate them more from the rest. Puts you in a nice trance, but drags on for a little long. I like the atmosphere. Wasn't blown away.

Track 3: Very lighthearted. Didn't expect that. But it works. Futuristic sound with all the synths and the choir. The guitar and lightheartedness gave it a bit of a town feel. A town in a bubble. Didn't much convey the outside thread though. Sounds like it needs a follow up song for that.

Track 4: Minimal music I'd say. Changes key from Am to D by introducing a new melody, but without changing the bass and percussion. Unusual but effective. I don't like the sudden ending and the fact the second part is an exact repetition of the first. Then again I didn't immediately notice it so it would work great as a loop. Especially because of the variation in mood and the already repetitive nature.

Track 5: Good sounds overall. Reminds me more of a trip on a snowy mountain though. Could just be me. The synth lead is a bit of an odd one out. The only strict electronic instrument. I don't completely dislike it, but it doesn't blend in. Nice build up. More and more instruments contribute. Creates a nice climactic effect. Lots of repetition, with minimal changes and additions. Not a bad thing. The song remains interesting. But I would've liked a completely different part as a bridge, with a different chord scheme and perhaps a different key altogether, to break up the repetition. The ending is a little abrupt.

Track 6: Nothing about this track I dislike. Quite energetic and good sounds. Also futuristic because of the synthesizers and effects on the instruments. I liked it when the strings came in. I would've wanted a more epic repetition of the main theme, with added strings, and where the other instruments go completely loose. To be hones I don't completely hear the theme here. It could be used for a biodome, but I think the song is too specific for an action driven scene, and a not extremely threatening one at that. Reminded me for example of the Blitz Ball games in FFX. Overall I like it a lot.

Track 7: Good piece. Very exciting. Sounds like a professional film score. Building up suspense at the beginning. Then action. Then resolve. The final part also sounds quite beautiful, But I think I would've preferred it as a bridge, that it would be shorter, and the action part returned. Or alternately a sad part as bridge, then let the action part return more vehement and end with a shorter version of the beautiful part it ends with now. Imo that would be a better build up, but it sounds nice though I like it. It would be great as a film score.

Track 8: Another cinematic score. I like those electronic moody sound effects. Go well with the orchestral instruments. Really what I would expect to hear with a biodome theme. Has that sad mood of a world after the apocalypse. Also hopeful and determined to live on. Epic build up.

Track 9: Also a good track. Though I'm a little less impressed after all I've heard. Nice ambient mood. I like the atmosphere. Relaxing, yet with a hint of menace, that grows over time. I miss some base though. Especially when the hard hitting snare drum sounds, there isn't enough base to support it. Either a heavy drum like a basedrum, a taiko or a timpany, and/or a double base string section would be nice. Good job.

Track 10: This was really obvious who made this... But I'm not allowed to guess so I keep my mouth shut. I like the song. Nice break from the other ones. Apart from the lyrics it didn't extremely remind me of a biosphere, but at the same time that makes it more unique, and I could really use something else. The text is well written. The buildup isn't bad. Could've been more than it is though I feel. The bridge (or whatever you call that between 1:59 and 2:28 nicely breaks up the song. I like that. But instead for a more quiet part I'd go the other way and go for a part that really lifts the song. The part after the break is also disappointing. A good and obious choice you return to the chorus, but it would've been better if you turned it into a real climax and repeated it more often. Great song, but tastes like more.

Track 11: Not bad. I could feel the oppressive biodome mood. Still it feels something is missing. Maybe with more sound effects it would be more interesting. It gets better towards the end. If more effects like at the end were at the beginning, and you keep the climactic build up you have, it would be better. I think the instruments don't blend well.

Track 12: Atmospheric piece. Good sounds. Works well in a film. A little less to listen to by itself. A little to unsubstantial for that. It changes all the time, but also a lot of repetition. Also a bit too straightforward, and not too many unique sounds. Maybe I sound a little too negative here. I like film music. This is quite an alright song for me to listen to.

Track 13: Rather short but still nice. I suppose that was a tv or radio tuning. I get what you're going for. But the distortion was a little too digital to get the right effect. The part afterwards was also a little too happy. The happy distorted sounds of the beginning are quite menacing, and would work best to introduce a darker more action driven song for contrast. The part afterwards sounds like an intro for a news program. Which fits the parts that come before, but I'd rather have something that contrasts.

Track 14: Also a piece that focuses more on the positive aspect of life in a biodome. Until... It get's exciting. More like a hear play than a song, but that's not against the rules. In fact that's quite original, and sets you apart from the rest. Not too bad acting. Would've been better if the acting was a bit more convincing, and the voices more distinguished. Interesting piece.

Track 15: Thought I heard everything and nothing could blow me away anymore. But this one just did. Nice sounds. The industrial ones in combination with the water and birds. Sets up the right mood. Blends in nicely with the atmosphere of the rest of the music. Great instruments. I really like the harp. Reminds about something out of World of Goo.

Track 16: After track 15 I was sure anything would disappoint but I was wrong. This also reminds me of World of Goo. Nice ambient score. Not really dark and threatening, but much happier and lighthearted. Would work well as credit roll after film with a happy ending. Perfect closure for the playlist.

We indeed have a soundtrack for a biodome film/game/project. Such great music. I like the music of this round better than the previous one.

After so many great tracks it's difficult to choose. The tracks I liked best are 15, 8, 16, 6 and 7. Though the only melody that stuck was that of 4...

I'll send a PM with my eventual vote.