I am trying to write kind of a slowly moving song then rises up at the end then a slow conclusion.
For some reason though I get a feeling like I heard the same tune before...
NOTE: This song hasn't been mixed to a great extent yet so it's a bit rough.
If anyone could give me tips on how to make this a bit more unique that would be awesome, thank you!
Just doing what I do.
One thing that could make it more subtle and unique is good sample libraries for strings and woodwinds, like EastWest and the likes.
Other way to add interest is to add some evolving textures on subliminal or very quiet level. I have one example on how it can be done - https://soundcloud.com/deekourtsman/night-on-the-galaxy-express
Dee Kourtsman
Royalty free fantasy music
https://audio.deekourtsman.com
Whenever you have a slow piece that evolves over time, your arrangement can make or break the listener's experience. You have a lot of long notes so why not fill in some of the harmonic/rhythmic gaps with 8th notes that add more motion and interest. Also your final build up to the solo piano is screaming for some percussion. Cymbal swell with a timpani roll into the downbeat.
Your piece would also benefit from more automation and production attention and it lacks low end in the mix. This makes the piece top heavy and makes the overall impression of the piece sound less powerful than it could be. Thanks for sharing - I hope that helps!
Nathan Madsen
Nate (AT) MadsenStudios (DOT) Com
Composer-Sound Designer
Madsen Studios
Austin, TX
Listen to Alex Lifeson's guitar solo in La Villa Strangiato if you want some inspiration. A lot of musicians consider that to be the best "slowly building" guitar solo ever recorded.
"I wish that I could live it all again."
Layer your synths, work on your transitions (Add some very subtle ones every 4 or 8 bars). Also please mix it better. A lot of high frequencies in this one. Overall though, it does create emotion but that happens midway onwards. You need to do that in the beginning as well. Like the Piano and bass at the end.
Hey Iced P! I think this composition might be a bit generic sounding - but I don't think that's a bad thing. If I heard this during an early dialogue scene in a fantasy game, I wouldn't question its validity at all. I would recommend mixing the treble instruments a little lower though (or the bassier instruments louder). The level of the higher notes is a little jarring when they come in, I had to turn my speakers down to keep the song at a comfortable listening level.
Lasty, that bass and piano at the end is absolutely lovely :3
Best of luck!
