I like the percussion at the beginning and the bass line. The funky synth at :20 is pretty cool too. At :40, there’s this really nice stringed instrument (maybe a harp?) that’s so far back in the mix, I can barely hear it, but I really want to! Maybe some more compression would help it shine in the mix more. The mix here in general is pretty quiet - a compressor on the master track might be advisable, actually.

I like the synth melody at :59 and the mini-breakdown at 1:38. The composition could use a stronger sense of ebb and flow over time, though. It seems like you switch up the texture every 8 bars or so, but within those 8 bars the piece doesn’t sound very dynamic. Filtering, automation, slight variations in the drum patterns, etc. can really help a piece sound more interesting, especially when the harmonic framework is the same throughout.

Still, you clearly have a good sense of rhythm, harmony, and progression, and I like the sound design a lot too. A sharper mix and some more “humanization” in the composition would really help take this piece to the next level. Love the Latin inspiration and memorable melodies here, though. Keep at it, Yayday4evr! ^_^

Mixing, mastering, and balance
1.25/2
Structure, transitions, phrasing, and variety
1/1.5
Melody, tonality, harmony, and texture
1.5/2
Instrumentation and sound design
.75/1
Emotion, atmosphere, and catchiness
1.25/1.5
Originality and uniqueness
.75/1
Overall (how do the elements above interact?)
1/1
Composite score
7.5/10

I enjoy your lead writing, however the swing against the straight 4 cowbell is a bit distracting. Something feels a bit off.

I would also remove the 250 hz reverb wet by about 50% as that is taking up the majority of the low end spectrum and will resonate on speaker systems such as soundbars and bluetooth devices. It is not so noticeable on headphones but still takes a lot of presence on the soundstage, where your lead should be.

Mastering compression would help this mix a lot. It appears to be relatively quiet.

Aside from that, the piece is thematically consistent and does not have many distractions from the main melody. Nice work!

Thanks for coming out to NGUAC!