Everratic's audio Reviews on Newgrounds

[The Keyhole]

I generally enjoy the composition, especially the pretty section at 3:00. The structure is solid, and the intro and outro are well executed. I do, however, feel like this is an outline of a track to be completed.

One prominent problem is the apparent lack of dynamics automation and variation. The orchestra can be played at many different levels of volume/intensity, and this effects the timbre and utility of all the instruments. Modern sample libraries usually have at least 3 layers. It's important to use these different layers to make each phrase more expressive and properly shaped, and to strengthen the contrast in intensity between sections. When working with sample libraries, be mindful of the machine gun effect that occurs when you repeat the same sample repeatedly. Some solutions are to vary the velocity with each note, use a specialized library with multiple samples for each note type, or switch between different articulations.

I think you can employ more string articulations. For example, tremolo can be nice at :23 and 2:02. Harmonics could be useful in the intro and outro.

I think the :30 section could use a lot more movement. Runs can be quite useful here.

At 1:40, the horn sounds like it's hitting the compressor hard. I think trumpets would be more comfortable there.

At 2:40 the piano is masked by the strings. You could double the line with another percussive instrument,

At 2:45 the cello melody is not very noticeable in its lower register. The line could be doubled with another string instrument or woodwind. Also, when the cello is reaches its highest notes, you can swap it with viola/violin so it feels more natural.

In the outro, it sounds like all the piano notes are being played at the same velocity. It might help make the bass and middle note slightly softer.

Although I think you did a good job establishing a certain vibe with each section, I do think this track has more melodic potential. I didn't notice a memorable melody throughout the piece.

Good luck! I don't typically write such detailed reviews in ngadm, but in this case I had a lot to say, and there's still time before the deadline to make changes.

RedCocoa responds:

Damn, that's a very in depth review, thanks :D
I'm going to test your suggestions out, this is pretty much the first pure orchestra piece I wrote so I was almost sure I made some mistakes. Hopefully I'll manage to update the track before the deadline lol

[There's not much happening here]

This is fun to listen to. I like the atmosphere and happy vibes.

[AIM - Charon]

This is my favorite submission from the ones I listened to :D

[Amiss]

Nice work! This is very relaxing, and there are many interesting chords and effects :)

LucidShadowDreamer responds:

Why thank you! I'm glad it was interesting. I took an unusual (for me) approach to composing this one.

[Beware - AIM]

This is extremely catchy. It's my favorite song of yours :D And I noticed you got some new drum samples ;)

[I N S U R R E C T I O N]

I love it!

zybor responds:

Thank you Everratic 😊

[Fight For Humanity]

VGMC II Review:

Composition:
I like the chaotic riffs and melodies and the occasional dissonance. And I like how agile the bass line is at times. You did a good job adding variety with each section so the entire doesn't feel repetitive on loop. I think some of the transitions between sections are weak; adding a reverse cymbal or reversed note and a cymbal on the first beat of a new section can help make some transitions more pronounced.

Production:
I like how you used reverb on the pads to emulate a large space, like a huge underground tomb. The kick sounds a bit weak but otherwise the drums are well balanced, albeit they could be slightly louder. Some of the synths are overpowering and dominate the mix, so that should be cleaned up.

At 2:22 the new percussion that comes in sounds too up close in this context. I suggest adding early reflections reverb to it. I also think it should be a bit lower in volume.

Theme:
I think you did a good job with this aggressive-electronic approach. I think it's clear even without context that this track depicts some sort of intense battle and a lot of anger.

Sound Design:
I really like the bass and aggressive lead synths. I like the idea behind using bells and organ; however, I feel that the organ sound blends with the pads too much and the bells sound too synthy.

I'd like to hear more velocity variation with the high hats so it feels less repetitive.

Nice job overall!

[Soul Of The Skinless Saviour]

Now I understand your excitement about your new toys. This is definitely an upgrade in sound design.

Everything is excellent. I like what you did with the choir :D

[Transient]

I didn't expect to hear this genre from you, but it's very enjoyable :)

KevinMueller responds:

Thank you!
Yeah, I really like this genre. It's a nice change from the cinematic stuff. :)