I like the pensive piano riff at the beginning, even if the chord progression is a bit cliche. The vocals were nice, and the lyrics themselves are also beautiful. At times, the vocals sounded a tad undecorated. They could’ve used some more mixing effects. It’s also hard to make out the lyrics just from listening to the vocals. I know you didn’t sing them yourself, but it sounds like Maria needs to enunciate her consonants a bit more sometimes. I like the string sections a lot, too - they add some much-needed variety to the texture. Sometimes, the piano gets a little drowned out underneath the strings and vocals, though, which is especially noticeable at around 3:15. The mix is also a tad quiet in general. Still, nice work with the compositional aspects of this piece. Stickler for structure though I am, I like what you did with the unconventional arrangement here. Ironically, it still sounds a tad cyclical to me in terms of the energy levels and patterns of instrument entries, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Overall, solid work with the harmonies, sound design, and thematic attributes here. Some of the compositional and production details might need some work, but otherwise it’s an enjoyable piece. Keep at it, JohnnyFrizz! :)

Mixing, mastering, and balance
1.5/2
Structure, transitions, phrasing, and variety
1.25/1.5
Melody, tonality, harmony, and texture
1.75/2
Instrumentation and sound design
1/1
Emotion, atmosphere, and catchiness
1.25/1.5
Originality and uniqueness
.75/1
Overall (how do the elements above interact?)
1/1
Composite score
8.5/10