VA - Forum EP04 [Trancefix Recordings]

[erickUO]

Overall I like the release, but have mixed feedback. As others have mentioned, the baselines in each track are very good. There's a big lack in character in basslines today, so its appreciated. Papillon original is my favorite out of the bunch, but it's a bit rough round the edges. I don't feel the same track clashing sensation that others mentioned here, but when you listen to Narel's version the difference is clear. That's a good track too, however the arrangement of the original version is excellent and after 3/4 listens it really started to hook me in a very big way. Top work.

The Hobby Shop tracks are similar in that some production or sound choices sound off. For Solar I think the breakdown needed different treatment as the rhythm of the bassline felt awkwardly paced when so isolated in that section. It worked much better when it drops and lifts off. For Nadir it was maybe some harshness in elements, mostly the high-hats and some general white noise feel. On the flipside other sound elements, like the bass, some FX, kick and other details sound perfect, and both tracks are the most 2005 sounding ones I can think of in a decade or more. Any hardware used, or all software? If this truly is one of your first trance releases you should be greatly encouraged, because you display a understanding for the genre that seemed to have escaped almost everyone.

I already commented on Echoes of You previously. It sounds very professional, clean and well balanced. The melody is good. Just more sophisticated build next time please.

Thanks for the detailed feedback. The hi hats are spot on, it's still one of my biggest struggle.

Anyway, it's all software. It must be Narel's mastering magic

 

[Narel]

Anyway, it's all software. It must be Narel's mastering magic

Nah mate…. there’s an oldish English phrase that applies very well to mastering; ‘You can’t polish a turd’. In case you’re wondering turd = shit .
Your tunes were mixed just fine, so mastering them from the premasters was a breeze. Mastering isn’t the stage for any significant mix tweaks, if there had been issues I’d have made some suggestions for you to fix on the mixdown.
On hats, I often get a loop and cut it up or create loops of sections of it to get the rhythm I want. Then add my own other percs around that. Wet/dry them with some effects too to add movement/variation as required.

 

[Unjungle]

Stunning EP, congrats!

Papillion (Original) & Nadir 🫠

 

[Air_Water]

Papillion builds heavenly. I get strong Anjuna vibes, had me drifting. Narel's Edit had me moving more, real nice too.

 

[Freezer]

I really like that Daryl Wilson track - its the clear winner here for me the other tracks has a spot on sound but not enough interesting melodies for me
Nadir has a huge beat and bassline, while there is a dissharmonic note, which throws me off slightly