The beginning sounds really distorted and ominous. I like the mood, but I think some of the instruments, along with the chord progression, sound a little generic. I like the strings. They add a great sense of drive and urgency to the piece. The change-of-pace at the 1-minute mark was a bit wonky. I like the melodic content at 1:06, but I think the mix was a bit strained there. It’s hard to hear the strings and percussion. The re-intro at 1:31 was a good way of channeling the energy during the second half of the piece. You have needed a bit more contrast with the dynamics and phrasing, though. Still, the piece sounds rather climactic, dramatic, and emotional. Your composition skills are excellent overall. Mixing is the next crucial step for you. Please be stricter with equalizing, and don’t be afraid to compress the percussion and string harmonies. Stereo widening and panning are your friends you call in an emergency. Overall solid work! :)

8/10