For a 2:50-long piece, I needed at least 85 seconds of overt source usage for the VGM to be dominant.
15.5-:28, :33.75-:50, 1:27.25-1:44, 1:58-2:12, 2:25-2:38 = 72.5 seconds
The piano chords used at the opening and during the sax soloing also played the Ice Man progression, only simplified, but I made the connection there as well, so I'm fine with the source usage.
That shuddering vibrato will definitely make some other listeners shudder. It didn't bother me... a ton, but it'll definitely rub some people the wrong way. Keep in mind, the context is that he's a washed up lounge singer. With awfully cheesy lyrics to boot.
I'll also join in the chorus of people saying the ice cube SFX was too much for too long, but it didn't affect my vote either.
Unexpected and interesting approach going the comedic lounge route. Props for a fun curveball, Thad!
YES