score: 3.5/10

what I liked:

• I like the percussion and the downsampling applied on it, it's not too much that it's distracting, but still gives off the video game feel
• this groove is pretty unique and I respect that you did something different
• some cool digital effects you have going on, helps add flavor to this track

what I think could be improved on:

• the melody starting at 0:12 sounds too random to me, would've liked better voice leading
• similarly, the melody at 0:32: for example, chord tone 2 should probably pass through 3 before hitting 4, instead of leaping directly from 2 to 4 which sounds a little broken
• the syncopated groove would sound better with more "punch" (i.e. louder downbeat, more bass, more staccato, more noise, etc.). it just sounds a little plain to me, a sort of awkward feeling where I don't know if I should feel energized or calmed
• the first 2 minutes are kind of just the same energy level all throughout, and I expected more to happen (at least some variations in melody, harmony, instrumentation, etc.)
• overall, I would suggest working on crafting more fluid melodies, and adding more of a story to your work

I like the quirky percussion and ominous synths toward the beginning. The riff at :12 has a lot of movement, but the rhythm is a bit square. Meanwhile, I really like the contour and syncopations of the melody at 1:12, but the synth itself sounds a bit harsh. I also think the structure of this piece felt a bit cyclical, and could’ve used some more shape, perhaps via a more atmospheric or downtempo breakdown/bridge. Still, the sound design and mood really make the piece what it is. Overall, my main complaints are with the composition here - it needed a stronger sense of direction over time imo. Still, the mixing is also solid, and I could see this fitting in really well in a videogame. The eerie tone and catchy melodies only bolster that fact. Keep at it, Tebyricat! :)

Mixing, mastering, and balance
1.75/2
Structure, transitions, phrasing, and variety
1/1.5
Melody, tonality, harmony, and texture
1.75/2
Instrumentation and sound design
1/1
Emotion, atmosphere, and catchiness
1/1.5
Originality and uniqueness
.75/1
Overall (how do the elements above interact?)
.75/1
Composite score
8/10

Feels kinda like castlevania! Nice work :)