Pyro Paper Planes
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All righty then! Well, it won't be too long I'm guessing.
Thanks guys for your help.
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I like it.
It starts off with the Phendrana Drifts theme instead of that piercing beginning part. It sounds quite peaceful and it's really good.
It's a little too much bass to it though, and it's a little hard to hear the softer sounds in it. Otherwise it's pretty good.
Thank you.
Perhaps I should modify the EQ of the synth pads? Not sure about the bass itself, as it drives the track.
I'm hoping to submit this to OverClocked ReMix eventually...
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EDIT
May 30, 2012: I wish to thank everyone who gave advice to my mix. I've applied most of the suggestions in this topic, and have submitted what I think is the final version to Darren for Harmony of a Hunter: 101% Run (and I will send it to OverClocked ReMix soon). I'm still looking for criticisms for the track, but wish to keep all versions from here on in a surprise for the public. If you wish to hear it, please send me a Personal Message. Thank you again!
Old Version:
Source:
Metroid II: Return of Samus is a very unique Metroid title. Apart from introducing some of the series most established power-ups, it also featured composer Ryoji Yoshitomi. His work brings a wonderful ambience to the Metroid series, ranging from the chirpy Chozo Ruins, the eery depths of the Metroid lair, to the lighthearted surface of Planet SR388. On a whole, I feel that Metroid II is very underrated when compared to its older brother Metroid.
Out of my entire repertoire, SR388 has to be one of my most remixed pieces. It's a very versatile track, one that matches (if not outright better than) the original Brinstar theme in quality.
I've built each mix from the previous arrangement. And now, you end up with "The Unnamed Frontier". This time, I decided to go with a very electro-chilled piece. It's a very subdued, peaceful track. Overtime, the beat builds up with minor progression changes. Featured throughout the mix is a saxophone homage to "Phendrana Drifts" that fits surprisingly well with most of the Metroid discography. The final fadeout combines both progressions, with reverb coming up slowly to blur out the mix.
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Just a request. For Harmony of a Hunter, I contributed two tracks "Melting Sun" and "Lone Star" (which have been approved by OverClocked ReMix, and are awaiting posting). Might I request my name shows up as part of the arrangers?
Thank you!
OverClocked ReMix Link: http://ocremix.org/album/24015/harmony-of-a-hunter
Other Source: http://vgmdb.net/album/27804
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Update:
http://tindeck.com/listen/foju
Changed EQ for most tracks. Changed the bass. Rearranged percussion, including high-hats. Removed most vocals and DJ Scratches. Changed microphone setup for strings (using close microphones, toning down studio microphones).
I don't know though... it feels like it's missing something. Any advice on what to do?
Edit: That bass just sounds so... weak. Ugh. Any ideas on what to do with it? Whoa, and the strings sound really messed up at the end. I'll fix that next version.
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Hello:
I think overall this just needs to be phattened up.
To submit to OCR, I think that a few things may need to happen first, I'm not a mod but my overall impressions are:
1. The song sounds hollow, and not in a way I can really say I like. I feel as if there's too much reverb/resonance on things that don't need it.
I think you might be right. It's no where near as bad as some of my material from last year. Nonetheless, I have very little experience with mastering "full" pieces. It's odd that you should mention reverb, as I didn't add nearly as much reverb to this mix. Most of it is the natural reverb that comes with the patch I use (EWQLSO default studio microphone). Anyway, I'll get back to that.
2. The bass, IMO I think you should shorten notes even more when you can, eliminate any resonance possible (I am also not a fan of where it actually sits in the song, so that could be it too, as in room placement). I think it also may be a bit too chorusy. Phatten it up in the low low end of the spectrum, and search for that sweet spot in that 1k to 2k range. I think it's really an ear thing, listening closely to make it stand out.
Thinking about the chorusy complaint, did you double it up actually? Because it feels like whatever has more resonance/reverb if it's two synths combined could be the culprit.
That most likely is the culprit. I am using three bass synthesizers mixed at around -8.0dB. Logic Pro's bass instruments are rather lacking. I'll mess around with the EQ, and perhaps even change the instrument altogether.
3. When the strings come in, everything gets muddy. They have a slight "slow attack syndrome" that I think actually takes away from how cool they'd sound if they were a bit more flat in their actual approach, and automated in volume instead. Maybe a bit too much reverb (or way too large a room, because they are drowned out).
Unfortunately, I believe they're at their highest attack. I could use Logic Pro's samples instead of EWQL, and perhaps cut back on the studio microphone. I'll add the instrument microphone too, see if that helps placement/attack.
4. I also think I am not a huge fan of where your piano sits either, but that could be because of the bass/strings too, I think you could EQ the piano a bit better, just like everything else. Also stylistically, I have no problem w/ their repetitiveness, but I do wanna point out that you could probably easily mix up the rhythm, at least at the end of sections, and have more fun w/ chords.
Piano in the verse, chorus, or both? The piano in the verse is a simple Logic Pro piano synth with a DJ EQ, to make it sound old school (it suits the style of the piece). The piano throughout the chorus is EWQL Yamaha Piano, using the player microphone + studio microphone. I could mess with the EQ, but I'm not too sure what frequency range I should use. I can mix up the chords for the second verse, as I did have a few more ideas I cut out at the last second.
5. Your stevie wonder lead is very nice, nice writing too... But it also needs some beefing up, it's just too hollow. Work on making it stand out more.
I must confess, I never seem to know what I'm doing when it comes to EQing my tracks. Do you have any advice for the instrument?
6. Your drums are kind of lackluster too, although you do drop them out at appropriate times, and the voice/samples are pretty cool too, but overall the beat just need a bit of work. Actually though, are they a drumloop (or a couple drumloops)? That could be why, because they are gonna be harder to place in the mix if they are all together like that. If they aren't, and you're using a kit, work on getting that kick to pop (fill in lower bass freq your bass synth isn't using, and find that pop higher end freq), and EQ up the higher range of snare/highhats a tad. Get a little wider w/ the sound.
Fortunately, they're mostly MIDI. The maracas and voice samples are loops, but the triangle, kick, snare, and cymbals are all separate MIDIs. Again, I'll explore with the EQ, see what I can do.
Overall, I don't have a problem with the actual writing, it's a bit conservative but it's fine, and actually I think the instrument I have the least qualms w/ is the sax. It's obviously fake, but it's kind of quirky and has charm.
Just work on making the song phatter, hone and widen your mixing, boost, and give it more energy. Sorry to sound harsh, and it really only is my opinion, but as of right now I think you'll probably be waiting 6 months just for a no resub if you submitted.
Good luck!
Thank you for your honesty. It's criticism like this that actually helps me improve as a musician. If there's one thing I need to work on, it's equalizing my mixes. Whenever I use the EQ plug-ins, I feel like I can never quite get it to sound right, and usually end up using the stock EQ presets. I'll see if I can post an improved version soon.
In the meantime, does anyone else have any thoughts on the piece? :3
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Current Version
Source
Sonic the Hedgehog CD [JP Soundtrack]
Stardust Speedway, Stardust Speedway "P" Mix
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DgGeIjvNQkg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhUQi-Zlm8E
It's been a while, but I'm finally back with another composition! To contrast my isolated Metroid pieces (Melting Sun, Lone Star), I decided to go with an upbeat mix. With Sonic the Hedgehog CD being rereleased next month, what's better than remixing a piece from your childhood?
Track Log
December 1st
http://tindeck.com/listen/gjkj
First version, posted on forums for more feedback.
Current Version
Changed EQ for most tracks. Changed the bass. Rearranged percussion, including high-hats. Removed most vocals and DJ Scratches. Changed microphone setup for strings (using close microphones, toning down studio microphones). This is NOT the final version.
So what are your thoughts on the piece?
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Unless you need some kind of EAX or surround crud, anything that's called an audio interface should do the job just fine for gaming. It's just that with an external interface you shouldn't forget to switch it on, too.
The RME unit is quite a bit ($250) over your budget but is supported both in Windows and OS X.
I've checked it out. It looks very nice. Would you go with the Babyface or the NI Audio 6?
Final question: I own a receiver unit (Onkyo). If I connected the optical out of the soundcard to the receiver for entertainment purposes, do you think it would work fine? How about surround sound? None of this is too important, but it's nice to have.
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It's an Intel machine, driver support is not an issue.
What is your budget? Apogee Duet is praised, as is the RME Babyface.
Ahh yes, Apogee was something I considered. My biggest issue with it is the lack of Windows support. While I compose all my music in OS-X, I have considered going back to a Windows environment with my next machine... Never heard of RME, I'll check them out.
While I have a nice setup of equipment, I don't plan on recording anything too extreme (except the occasional MIDI piano and guitar recordings). I'm thinking $500 should be the maximum amount I spend. It would be nice to have two 1/4" outputs for speakers, and a 1/4 output for headphones (perhaps with a good amplifier built in). Simple volume controls would be nice too.
If I was to buy an external soundcard, would I use it for gaming too? While it's not a priority, I do enjoy PC gaming.
Thanks again.
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I've been out of touch with Sound Cards for the past while, and there doesn't seem to be many topics around the subject... would anyone be able to help me out here? I'm still debating whether I should go with an Internal or External card.
I tend to stick with playing piano and simply editing notes within a program (aka Logic Pro). At the same time, I would like to improve the audio quality coming out of my machine if possible.
Here's the catch: My machine is a Mac Pro. Driver support might be an issue. I was debating going with the Native Instruments Komplete 8 Ultimate + Audio bundle. The only limitation after that would be the system's specs (it's a 2008 machine). But enough rambling.
Thanks for your time.
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Bb flat minor; the saddest of all the keys...
That would be D minor.
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My thoughts exactly. Just fix this, and IMO it will be ready!
EDIT: Just so you know, I've been trying to cover the Prime theme lately, and this is pretty inspiring to me to finish my own cover.. What chords are being played at 3:30, if you don't mind me asking...
I forget... I'll let you know asap.
Thanks guys for your comments! And sorry for the slow responses, the forum didn't notify me of the new posts for some reason (probably had to do with my SSD failing on me X_X).
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I wrote some pieces with stages in mind, really satisfying to do. The ambience sections are pretty nice though there didn't seem much difference between normal and critical situation, bit too much tremolo string for my liking I would have prefered the ambience to keep the feeling of of what's going on around 0:36 and the slight use of brass in the background had a calming touch, ambience critical could probably have used another layer of string to arouse tension. I really liked the groove and rhythm of the alarmed stage, personally around here or the hostile stage I would have used orchestration or more synth use to play on the slight melody created in the ambience section to create more memorable character. This is very good though in design I was surprised by the quality of it.
Thanks!
I'll work on those kinks on my next version. I'll probably work on it again when I get myself a new set of samples (just saving up for them... in particular, the Komplete set).
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http://soundcloud.com/pyro-paper-planes/sentient
Inspired by those quiet rainy nights in the city. Original title was "Sentient Storm", but my friends preferred the title "Sentient".
It was originally a longer piece, but after analyzing the piece, I decided to cut the length down. Otherwise, it just dragged on.
When I finished this song, I had another song stuck in my head... it was a music video on youtube, of a bunch of people cleaning up the streets. But I can't find it for the life of me. Oh well.
Enjoy.
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http://soundcloud.com/pyro-paper-planes/distorted-illusion
An original composition, inspired by the Deus Ex series. I arranged the track so it can easily fade from one mood to another, depending on the situation. You can read them through the timed comments.
I'm very satisfied with the "Ambience" parts. Opinions on the piece would be appreciated.
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Komplete is a delicious choice for that kind of music, and so is Omnisphere. The way I see it is, Omnisphere has MORE OF what you're looking for, while Komplete has what you're looking for and a bunch of stuff you might NOT be looking for.
That's exactly my thoughts. The bonus with Komplete is the expansions out there, but it's more expensive. Anyway, thank you for time and patience. Same goes to you, Rozovian.
I suppose in the end, I'll try and save up for both of them. :3
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Here are a few examples of genres I want to create:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ud663-0durU
I'm essentially lacking in synthesizers and "good" percussion (snare hits, etc). Finally, I hope to add to my QL Pianos library by getting ahold of Emotional Piano.
I'm wondering if Komplete will be able to do any of that. Am I rushing things? Am I just not spending enough time with the Logic synthesizers? I might be better off getting something like Omnisphere.
Thanks for your time. Sorry for asking multiple times, I just want to be sure in my purchase...
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I'm assuming you're new to creating music, which is fine. We all have to start somewhere.
Firstly, the song sounds very MIDI. What samples are you using?
There's very little dynamics to the entire song. The piano is constantly at the back, playing quietly. The flute is right up front and dry (too much so imo). It sounds like several ideas thrown together, but they're not working together.
The arrangement is lacking in originality. In terms of instruments, in how the melody sounds, etc. Try to add something to it that's you.
Finally, it's lacking in bass, low sounding instruments. Note that it's not always needed, but in the terms of style here, it needs it. Perhaps someone else can explain it.
It's better than my first few songs, but you've got a ways to go. Keep at it though, and you will break through eventually.
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I'm very, VERY interested in contributing to the project. If Saria's Song is still available, would I be able to take that?
Previous Work:
Old YouTube Profile: http://www.youtube.com/user/DaDude261
I will probably try something new. Not sure what as of yet. I was thinking of mixing it with the OoT title...
Edit: D'oh, OoT Title has been taken. How about The Prelude, to Majora's Mask? Not a final decision though.
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I listened to about 5 or 6 songs that he showed me.
And I didn't say it so harshly. Stop overthinking what I say and making problems out of nothing. I already talked to him (via PM if you didn't bother to read), and he's not crying over the situation, so neither should you.
All right, keep your hair on.
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You know, I never even noticed the cameos until people pointed them out in this thread. I DID notice the similarity to Kraid's theme, and just thought it was a coincidence.
By far my favourite mix on an OverClocked ReMix album, if not one of my favourite pieces from this site. One question: Are the drums real? That deep snare is one of the best snare hits I've ever heard. The ride cymbals work well too. What type of reverb did you use for them?
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You're kind of misunderstanding here.
Kontakt is a software sampler. Komplete is a bundle of different products and it includes Kontakt with some other stuff that works in Kontakt.
If you want synthesizers, buy Komplete, sure, but don't expect to be using Kontakt at all. The sampled synths in there are kind of crap, only a few good patches. Stuff like Massive, Reaktor, Absynth, and FM8 are the synthesizers that come included in Komplete. But they aren't any way related to Kontakt.
There's only one version of Kontakt you can buy. That's Kontakt 4, soon to be Kontakt 5. It comes with a decent stock library, but at $400 you're better off buying Komplete and getting all the stuff that ISN'T Kontakt related. You said you're lacking decent synthesizers; Kontakt isn't what you're looking for. Ultimate edition is just more sample libraries for Kontakt, which isn't what you're lookin for. You want synths.
I should have took more time to describe Kontakt, as that's pretty much what I meant.
Emotional Piano REQUIRES a paid version of Kontakt... I think. AKA:
http://www.native-instruments.com/#/en/products/producer/kontakt-5/
(For reference: http://www.soundiron.com/instruments/pianos/emotional-piano/)
So my question is, should I go ahead and spend the extra $160 for the Komplete version (AKA $399 vs $559)? Or just stick with the base version for Emotional Piano, and look elsewhere for synthesizers? And what other synthesizers would you recommend in its place?
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I own the CCC (EWQL Symphony Orchestra, EWQL Symphonic Choirs, QL Pianos, QL Ministry of Rock, QL Gypsy, QL SILK, QL Stormdrum 2). While I've owned it for 6 months, I've only really been able to use it in the past month. For sample instruments, they're some of the best that I've used. For a "real" instrument library, they're very good. But something doesn't sound right. I don't know if it's the PLAY engine, my computer specs, or something I'm doing wrong, but I just can't quite get it to sound right. Then again, listen to "The Crimson Depths". I believe that was mostly done with EWQL, and it sounds bloody fantastic (even the OverClocked ReMix team thinks so:
)Here's one of my piano solos:
I hate to destroy the illusion, but that piece wasn't done with a real piano: It was done with QL Pianos. While I consider it "finished", I can't shake the feeling that something sounds off. Without the "Room" microphones, the piece felt bare. With the "room" microphones though, it doesn't sound as clear as a real piano. If anyone has some advice, I'd love to hear it.
In the end, I think if you take your time with the EWQL libraries, you'll have some phenomenal sounding libraries on your hand. Look at The Crimson Depths. Just be prepared to work on it: It took me a few weeks to work through the PLAY engine's quirks.
Now, I don't own Kontakt. However, from looking at the demos they have some fantastic synthesizers. They also provide plenty of options for mixing the tracks themselves. Finally, they offer expansion: There are several third party libraries that require the Kontakt Player. One I've been eyeing in particular is the Emotional Piano. Every time I hear that library, my heart melts.
So, what should you go with? It depends on what style of music you wish to compose. As a CCC purchaser, I'm not entirely convinced. Yet, Sam's track alone shows that it CAN be brilliant. If you're needing a more "varied" library, I think Kontakt will be the better option of the two.
Here's my question for Kontakt users: What version should I get? Firstly, I own a Mac. Secondly, I really want to purchase the Emotional Piano library, but it requires Kontakt. The Logic Studio library is decent, and EWQL has some fantastic orchestral options. I'm lacking in decent synthesizers though. I think I'm edging towards the Komplete Edition (not the Ultimate Edition). It seems to include a good balance of everything.
Blimey that was a long post.
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I agree with all points about Mozzaratti's song. I still enjoy it, even with the mixing issues.
*sits in anticipation of The Orichalcon's thoughts of disc 2*
Dark Storm: Piano Zelda Medley
in Post Your Game ReMixes!
Posted
It's coming along really well, on a compositional level. My gripes are with the production:
- Pan the two pianos. Right now, as previously mentioned, it sounds like someone playing with four hands on the same piano, rather than two pianos.
- The piano sounds MIDI at times. It lacks that dynamic feeling of a piano (the little touches, tempo changes, etc).
If it is MIDI, I'm tempted to ask if I could personally give it a go with my EWQL pianos. As I said, I have no qualms with the composition itself. Well done.
Edit:
There's an example of one of my pieces (recorded with a Korg M3). It's still lacking something when compared to a real piano, but it's definitely one of the best keyboard sample libraries I own.