I like the light, soothing tone at the beginning. The rhythm is a little square, but the melodic content and sound design are beautiful. The mix is a tad quiet, but I like how the texture fills out a bit with the addition of the bass tones at around :43. I like the re-intro at :58, although the string notes at around 1:07 could’ve sounded more distinct. The percussion at 1:12 and the climax into 1:20 sounded nice, and the percussion remains crisp and clear in the mix for the remainder of the piece. I also like the subtle use of synthetic sounds during this section. I suppose I would’ve liked to hear you foreshadow the transition at 1:48. The brass harmonies at 2:16 sound pretty inauthentic, and the choir at 2:27 sounds a bit over-saturated in the mix. That said, the melodies here really help hit the piece home, and the emotional appeal of the final piano solo during the last 30 seconds is great. I think this piece has a bit of a choppy arrangement and some minor mixing issues, but overall I enjoyed the composition a lot. Keep at it, CloakedSoup! ^_^

Mixing, mastering, and balance
1.5/2
Structure, transitions, phrasing, and variety
1.25/1.5
Melody, tonality, harmony, and texture
2/2
Instrumentation and sound design
1/1
Emotion, atmosphere, and catchiness
1.25/1.5
Originality and uniqueness
1/1
Overall (how do the elements above interact?)
1/1
Composite score
9/10

I’ve been listening but not commenting much lately - however, I do particularly love what you have here. I think your experience in making large, epic textures has really borne fruit in mixing these sorts of grand, sweeping orchestrations. I’m not sure how exactly you get it as clear as it is without overwhelming the mix. On another note, I can definitely hear how composers like Powell and Coker have influenced your writing. I’m honestly envious of how well you’ve drawn their orchestral touches into your own style. These days I have to drive a bit farther than I’m used to when going to work, but I take the time to listen to things like the HTTYD3 soundtrack on the way. Your work certainly enthralls me on a similar level at times! Great work as always, can’t wait for what’s next!

Un peu répétitif mais j'aime bien