Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

This beat hits, it has a great swing on the drums that brings a funky vibe to a HP track. The vocals sound great on the mix, I would have bumped the vocals up a touch on the hook and dig deeper into vocal effect to make it more stand out in specific parts and have it add more to the overall track. This track has the extra sauce.

Total: 8

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

You know my wife is a Harry Potter ultra fan so I was paying attention hard to make sure you didn’t slip up so good job on the Slytherin shot.
Very good word play and slotting yourself into the beat - I want to see how you swap up your delivery / tone in the other challenges but look forward to hearing more from you in the comp.
Multis - thumbs up

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

I love the beat box first off let me say. Interesting play on Harry Potter which is usually referenced as magical but this beat kind of sounds like an older horror film - which I actually like the twist. Appreciate the layering of instruments as the song progresses to give more of a sonic landscape, would like to see you experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition.
The higher frequencies of the vocals sound good and crisp but the lower end of the vocals either weren’t raised or are getting overpowered by the same frequencies of the instruments not 100% sure but may want to look at the 1000-2000 area. It makes it difficult to hear the vocalist when the other instruments come in especially on the hook

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Surely did. Not going to toss a lot in here

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out. But my favorite line if I interpreted it correctly is the “How did Joanne Rowling find supportive crowds?”

TOTAL: 7.5

Navi

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Solid vocal performance, energy/presence, and the writing is fun. Vocals are cohesive as a result, plus the writing is pretty smart. I appreciate the tone a lot.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

I enjoyed a lot of the instrumentation / beat choices. There’s some fun variation, the drums are thick and present, and there is detailed engineering beat work (panning, balance, etc). That said, the hook vocals are a bit buried and the hook energy suffers as a result. Plus. the bass / beatbox / subkick often feel disconnected from the rest of the beat (from a mixing standpoint) as opposed to a cohesive whole.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Clear fulfillment of the POV/multi challenges. The beatbox is a tried and true way to approach the vocal sampling challenge, and the source sampling is on point.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). I really appreciated this track and it was one of the most cohesive imo, but it didn’t quite make the cut.

Favorite lyric: "you couldn't thwart all the things that I've brought about"

TOTAL SCORE: 8.5

RJ

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Vincent EL delivers this with a confidence I sure wouldn’t have in a second language. The narrative angle from a character that exists beyond just the core material, and would have a wider world view, leads to a larger array of lyrics that is able to create its own narrative.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

I want to say in my first review that if your lyrics get lost in the mix you’re gonna have a bad time from me. This is not the case for .5 quartet so they get the points. This song also did a good job of fitting in a little jingle from the core material that didn’t feel distracting. If I had to find something to complain about I think it would be that after a few looped listens the beat kinda feels like it’s just droning on.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Beatboxing probably isn’t the most original way to fit a sample but it ticks the box. The source sample is there. Seems good on this end.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

While solid I’m not feeling a real wow factor.

Total Score: 8

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Confident multis and delivery. Vincent delivers that flourish and finality that The Sorting Hat has.
Catchy hook - I appreciate all of the vocals layered into this. The subtle singing layer is a nice touch.
(1:12) Flow falls off here between “in perilous scenarios? Or get very close.”

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
(0:12) There is too much going on in the hook in each of its iterations. Vox is buried in the beat during this - I'd like to hear the vox sit a little higher from the percussion.
I like the fade into acapella at the end, right down to the beatboxing.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Both members of .5 Quarted fulfilled the requirements of the challenge.
Vincent EL is masterful at multis. Lyrics aren’t forced and they sound natural from them.
The sample is woven into the instrumentation well - I can tell that it is from the Harry Potter score, but it's done in a way in which .5 Quartet has made their own. The sample becomes a needed layer to complete the song vs. a frivolous addition that does not add to the entire piece.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
I ain’t mad at it. Good shit, y’all.

Total Score: 8

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

This intro is great, sets up the listener for the vibe of the track. Drum beat slaps but gets a little "ducky" on the hook. You can feel the melody and vocals pumping a little to hard for the overall vibe of the track. Vocals sound great. Delivery on point and hook is nice.

Total: 7

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.75/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

You’re benefiting from your order because I haven’t heard anyone sing yet which I thoroughly enjoyed hearing that - plus you’re not a bad singer so it could have gone the other way I guess
I thoroughly enjoyed this delivery, and the message behind the lyrics. Just all around it was good for my ear holes. Usually I’m looking for the producer to paint the soundscape through composition but you actually flipped it on me and did it via the vocalist which was a pleasant surprise.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.25/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

The soundscape you’re painting with the instrumental was very solid - not just loop loop cut loop. I like hearing the drop outs of instruments for half measures and even quarter notes in some spots. Even pulling out everything except for the high hat to let the song breathe for a second before the hook was #chefskiss. The panning of your additional instruments was great.
Vocalist mixing was good - I docked points for one spot you’ll see in my number 4 feedback.
Would like to see you CONTINUE TO experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me). You did this around 2:15 mark where you added a new melody hence the CONTINUE TO - maybe try something where you’re utilizing a new key that shares a similar scale with your existing chords (if you’re feeling saucy that is).
Where I docked points - At points in the song I found it hard to hear the vocalist (2:15 was a blessing and a curse).

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Yes challenge details were met. If this weren’t so story telling vibey I may have docked a point for the way it was done, but it actually helped the progression of the song soooo good payoff for taking that leap.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0.5/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out. I’m making an exception here and giving a half point for those oooooo’s in the background and the hook melodic switchup.

TOTAL SCORE: 8.5

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2.75/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

I’m docking a sliver of a point because there’s some eyerollingly cliche and cheesy moments in this writing that make me groan a bit, BUT I think that more often than not it’s v appropriate to the character, and ultimately this is super fun, smooth, and wholesome. It’s really catchy, and confidently performed, with a solid showcase of vocalist versatility.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Aaaaak, this is rough cuz i think the composition is strong and there’s a very cohesive aesthetic to the song. The instrumentation all complements each other, and the overall soundscape / energy vibes really well with the POV. THAT SAID, there’s some really strong pumping / limiting in the hook. Be it overcompression or an uncurated limiter or what have you, something in the late mix / master stage ends up smashing the hook in such a way that’s really taking away from my enjoyment of it. This is a largely solid work, but getting a more precise grasp of your dynamic engineering will help it shine.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

All challenges met solidly, and while I think the “source sample clip song insert” is a fairly low risk way of meeting that challenge, it fits nicely with the mood here.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). This is such a solid tune but (and i mean no offense) it’s sooooo in ya’lls comfort zone. I’m always excited by risky choices in art, and I KNOW ya’ll are capable of cranking out 1000 smooth tunez like this. Surprise me with your more experimental side, and perhaps, one round, this point will be yours. <3

Favorite lyric: " A human centipede extensively entering blind"

TOTAL SCORE: 8.25

RJ

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

The singing deliveries have some low level Redbone vibes which is never a bad thing. For the rapped bars there’s the occasional spot where it feels like something could have been reworked as to not be as forced. That being said so many sections of this song are so tightly written they likely couldn’t exist otherwise.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Really smooth relaxed vibe that lends itself well to laying on the floor with headphones on. Kinda feels like it’s constantly threatening a big orchestral swell but it never shows up.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

The vocalist challenge met. For the producer half I think just dropping a sample to bookend the track and act as an opening drop won’t net you full points.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

I think with some mastering this track could absolutely glow but for the moment it’s not quite there.

Total Score: 7

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Great harmonies on the chorus.
It's a cadence I haven't heard from Bobby Arsen and I'm here for it.
Lyrics smoothly tie together.
(1:51) "Dexterity and your grind," (1:55) "Hit of the shit" - tighten that annunciation on those two sections
(1:57) "I'm a tag along sang a song bang a gong vagabond" - swag that out, I hear you going for a swing with your delivery, but you're cutting yourself short of using your words to fill the measure.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Turn up those drums. There's a filter in there that's muffling them and this song could use a touch more brighter percussion.
I like the build ups between verse and hook. Near end of chorus awkward pause or syncopation (find timestamp)
Reduce the reverb on that hook It’s clashing with the higher range elements of the instrumentation.
Reduce the reverb ESPECIALLY during the bridge and abridged chorus. There is a lot happening in this section and your highs and mids are clashing here.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Bobby Arsen’s multis are delivered confidently. The writing is not samey and monotonous and makes the cadence sound fun and interesting.
Hook Shot’s usage of synth elements is on theme with BMO.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something
This goes on the hookah session playlist. Well done, 1up Funk.

Total Score: 8

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

A vibe foresure, the into worried me but once the beat hits it all comes together. Drums are a little bright but the overall bump is great. Vocals are on point and I love command of the mic while going from hard raps to softer/whisper vox. Wish this song was longer.

Total - 7

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.25/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

I thoroughly enjoyed that you added your singing abilities to this song. I was wondering if you would when I saw the fandom and the vocalist.
I don’t know a ton about Ursula so I’m assuming you extrapolated some for the character since we don’t get much depth of backstory from the original movie but I enjoyed the content of the lyrics.
Experimenting with reference multis brought back from previous lines is one of the leaps to get closer to the perfect 3 for me this round.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Did you use ocean sounds as the background?! I love the creative way to layer a sound in without making it an actual musical instrument. One thing I wish I would have heard was using less stock drums or putting different effects on it to tweak their sound to fit more of the underwater theme.
The vocal mixing was solid I don’t have any complaints there. The prominent frequencies of the vocalist were clear, crisp and did not get washed out by any of the instruments that you brought in.
I was so onboard but had to take some points on the fadeout. If you’re going to go the route of dropping the instrumental out, do it by instrument and figure out which ones will compliment the vocals most to the end. Basically treat each instrument as a mutually exclusive decision and time for drop out.
Would like to see you experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me).

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Yes challenge details were met

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0.5/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out. Your sauce was the chopping of the vocals though that was nasty!

TOTAL SCORE: 8

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Ok, I really dug this performance. It’s a great showcase of vocal range and technique, plus it’s just super confident and that’s fun. I wish there was a bit less “generic” villain writing and a bit more focus on the specific POV of Ursula. Plus (and yes, i’m putting this here and not in Production), there’s never a point in the rap verses where there’s a clear LEAD verse. The energy is largely divided among multiple layered takes, and while it sounds cool, I think it’s ultimately less exciting than if i’d heard a solid, over-the-top charismatic lead take with some adlibs to beef it up. Nice work though~

PRODUCTION (3): 2.25/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

I’m going to get a bit picky, but please know it’s cuz I genuinely think this track is a few stars short of being stellar. There’s a lot to like here, imo. The composition really meshes with the vocal showcase, and has great dynamic variance. The drums are a bit generic but serviceable. I wish the bass instrument was a bit less vanilla (it coulda had a lot more aggressive grit and presence to it - to match the POV mood). I just WISH there wasn’t a fade out ending. It sucks the energy out of the song so abruptly. In theory, stripping to an acapella is a dope way to end this in a cyclical way, but the fade out didn’t do it for me at alllllll.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

This is top tier vocal sample usage for this round. I love how it was a signature part of the beat, not a buried idea or an afterthought. It reminds me of a lot of Four Tet-esque production. And while i’d normally be meh on tacking on a sample at the top, I thought it set up the next section super well, so kudos. Multis and POV - check!

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). It’s not quite my favorite track of the round, but I’m so excited to hear what ya’ll do next. There’s a lot that ticks my boxes here, but with some detailing work and a bit more attention paid to the pacing of the cohesive whole, it could be a gem. <3

Favorite lyric: " Poor little creatures you are all now my possessions”

TOTAL SCORE: 7.75

RJ

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

I like the eerie vocal open though I feel like it’s a little flat and doesn’t quite reach its full potential. The delivery on the rest of the song is solid. I like the depth the multi tracked vocals added.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Kinda wish the opening sample was cleaner but the transition out of it into your own opening is fairly clean. The beat knocks and I enjoy all the vocal samples cut into it. They’re distinct without being overwhelming.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

I like the narrative angle this song provides, sort of a “Wicked” of the ocean. I also feel like if disney did more songs like this I’d actually watch their movies. Finally all challenges appear to be met on this one.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

I feel like more could have been done within the provided space. The track has roughly 15 seconds for the intro and is only 2:15 long. Even with a 3 minute time limit I feel there was room for another verse.

Total Score: 8

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I like that the intro mirrors Ariel's aria.
(1:25) That cackle is sinister and the delivery on that should be far more over the top - Ursula’s cackling when she reverts back into sea witch from human being on the wedding ship.
(1:45) Have the same intensity and aggression in your first voice as you do in. Don't be afraid to get angrier near the end - your lyrics imply that you tho your delivery falls flat .

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
(0:19) The song would have a larger impact by starting with "Come with me..."
(1:27) "Poor Unfortunate Souls" is a great break.
The bass needs to be more chunky, hats should be turned down and mixed into the mix such that they don't sit on the vocals.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Siren’s got some solid and complex multis throughout the song. The story being told is fun, compelling, and interesting.
The sample of the source material being in the beginning as it is like this presents itself as an afterthought. Consider taking the elements from Ursula’s spell and weaving it into the rest of the song.
Two places where I thought the challenge was met well:
Chopping Siren’s singing is a great choice for a higher sounding layer
(1:27)’s “Poor unfortunate souls” drop.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 7

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 1/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Beat is peaking a ton on the kick, this held back what could have been a great bop of a beat. With how simple the beat was the change ups keep it fresh. Vocals ride well. Vocal effect use was simple but dope and add a lot to the track.

Total Score: 6

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Nice switch up within the verses. Super nice riding of the beat! Experimenting with reference multis brought back from previous lines is one of the leaps to get closer to the perfect 3 for me this round.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

I liked the different vocal treatment as the song progressed. I usually look for that out of the instrumental when I say “painting a sonic landscape / soundscape” but I see how you essentially created that landscape by treating the vocals different during the song.
The vocals could use a little more crispness. When you doubled up the vocals I noticed they had a little more clarity on the upper frequencies. During the main verses though the frequencies meshed with the other instruments making me have to listen harder to get the vocalist.
Would like to see you experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me).

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Yes challenge details were met

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out. Your sauce was the vocal chop of voices in my head as a sampler instrument raising the octaves. That’s one of my favorite things to put in songs so you snagged me there.

Total Score: 7

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

There’s a solid POV here, and I do like the hook a lot. It’s a very clean embodiment of a character in a boom bap style, but that’s also where I think the vocals suffer from being a little too run of the mill for my tastes. The slurry delivery works better in the hook, but in the verses, there’s a lot of moments where I lose clarity in the vocals, and it just sounds like wordmash.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

There’s a solid balance in the mix here, and although it’s a bit barebones, I think that helps to accentuate the multiple voices in the background without making it overwhelming / distracting. The drum programming is pretty tight, but the samples are a bit vanilla and could have been a bit more adventurous. That kick gets a bit blatty in the low-mid region at points too. I really enjoyed the dynamic variance though, specifically the triplet vox paired with the beat drop.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.75/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

POV and multis are strong, if not particularly groundbreaking. I love the vocal sample usage in this song. It really helps strike a tone. The source sample clip feels a bit tacked on, but it works ok.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). This is a workable entry but I want to hear a bit more attention paid to creating a unique signature for yourselves as a team and putting some polish on the finished product. Keep at it! <3

Favorite lyric: " I don't think that they see, what I've done with T”

TOTAL SCORE: 7.25

Total Score:

RJ

VOCALS (3): 1/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Flow’s a little generic and I don’t love the vocal filter thrown on in the middle part of the track. The delivery I feel like doesn’t have the energy needed to carry a track delivered at this pace.
Lyrics don’t particularly inspire.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Kind of a bland plodding beat. I feel like the production is the real place this track had a chance to shine and unfortunately it does nothing to prop up a bland delivery. I can at least say that the mixing wasn’t overpowering.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Multis were there but only in the most basic sense. This is another track that just dropped a source sample at the start and called it good. The “voices in my head” samples check the box but barely add anything.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Nothing really to add here.

Total Score: 5

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
(0:57) Transition to “You are alone…” is abrupt. I agree with the choice to switch up flow there, but the way this was delivered was clumsy.
(1:27) Keep the swing of how you rap "pull the strings," but do not lose your diction while doing so.
Delivery is flat especially on hook. Despite that, the hook is catchy. It’s an earworm, and if performed with more energy would elevate the song.
Main vocals sound muffled and boxy - you might be too close to the mic and not giving the sound of your voice room to bounce.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
This needs a quicker transition from sample to verse. Right now the sample and the rest of the song are not cohesive.
Vocals are overpowered by the beat. I would layer the drums (specifically that kick) and place a touch of reverb on them to add to the drama and sinister ambiance of this song.
(1:27) Lower the volume of the backing vocals during the line “pull the strings.” I like the effect that there is a crowd of BVNEs chanting this, and it sounds very muddy.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
While there are multis in T, the delivery is inconsistent in showcasing the lyrics.
Source sample is there. More middle range instruments/sounds would complete this beat.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 6

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
[Review Text]

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
[Review Text]

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
[Review Text]

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
[Review Text]

Beat is decent, nothing really stuck out to me but was not distracting. Outro was a bit long. Vocals come through strong and hold the listener. I wish this had some more vocal effects.

Total Score: 7

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
My dad was a Star Trek fan and I’m not super familiar with the fandom but enjoyed the song. Also I’m glad I didn’t have all of these folks in my VPCs because I’m only two tracks in and I’m thinking back to my vocalist days like “I’d get slapped.”
Your delivery has a very MF Doom * Wordburglar feel which fit the beat extremely well (Also two people I am a fan of so plus there) I upgraded your vocal score after a few more listens, your multis are strong but then I started catching the broken multis referencing the previous multis in the middle of your lines.
Not sure who’s call it was to do long intro / outro of samples but it cut into the vocalist delivery time so I subtracted a little from this

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Like the spacey feel of the instrumental, even the drum feels like it’s in outer space in the beginning. I actually enjoyed the panning (Sorry Navi) as it made me feel like I was sitting in the bridge of a spaceship with the instruments playing around me.
As the instruments started coming in, started losing the vocal clarity. The lead that pops in (4000 - 6000 range?) cuts into what was previously an extremely strong vocal clarity.
Would like to see you experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me).

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Yes challenge details were met

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 7.5

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2.75/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Solid POV work here, and the writing is smart. You have a solid grasp of your vocal range and presence, but I do think that some of the back half of the performance loses some steam, and specifically, the last verse doesn’t really end with the energy / power I’d expect from the character being portrayed.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

A lot of the beat is mashing together, for me, and the lack of clarity dulls some of the impact and bravado that should be supporting this POV. More attention could have been paid to balancing out (via panning, EQ, levels) the instrumentation / vocals to make a more active and engaging mix. The lead vocal is sharp enough that it cuts thru and doesnt get buried (but at what cost?) There’s some digital distortion in the lead vocal take that is noticeable even at low levels. A passable beat with some imaginative ideas, but allow some more time to really flesh out the mixing/mastering details next time!

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Solid POV and multis, but over 45 seconds of this song is samples, which, while cool and appropriate for concept building, kinda feel like filler at points. The vocal samples needed clarification for me to hear them (aside from the Khan part at the end) and could have been more prominently showcased in the beat.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). I’m excited to hear where this team goes but this one falls short on the polish side of things. Spend some more time in engineering next round, cadets. I have faith in you. <3

Favorite lyric: " But i’m a product of the best of the 90s"

TOTAL SCORE: 7.25

RJ

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Really enjoying how the flow bounces off the beat. Lyrics are good but don’t tell much of a story or do much other than paint a portrait. But the style is there.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Lyrics get a little hard to follow for a bit right around the 1 minute mark because of everything the beat is trying to do at the time. The use of “superior build of a person” through the song is subtle but on relistens is a fun foreshadowing.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Probably the best use of the producer challenge so far. Vocalist completed also.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

If the song could have shown me a hook and/or maybe another verse it could possibly get this point. But the song is 2:16 and bookended with long samples that feel like they eat a lot of time.

Total Score: 8

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Confident delivery.
MessiahCarey’s expertise around multis are great, none of this sounds forced.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Turn down the deeper vox behind MessiahCarey's main vox.
The long intro and outro sample doesn't do the song justice. Either have one of them or not at all.
The snare is very soft throughout the piece.
The midrange of this song is very muddled. There are a lot of sounds clashing with the vocals. Dial back some of those elements.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
[#%^ __="#" __="#" __="#" __="#" __="#" __="#" __="#" __="#" __="#" __="#" __="#" __="#"] met the challenge criteria. Khan is a great pick for a non-main character.
I like this song and with more time spent with the mixing and EQ, this will definitely be one to put on repeat.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
All that being said, Space Seed is going on the workout playlist.

Total Score: 8

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

I like the vibe of this track, it has a lot of mid 2000's rap vibes to it. This is also the down side of the track as well. Writing is nice but did not stick with me after listening. I am excited to see what this team does next round.

Total Score: 6

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.25/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
This has a very Big Tymers early 2000 flow (good thing from me). I’ve heard you go more intense with your flow voice so I appreciated you slotting into the instrumental and keeping it more on your chill scale.
Interesting take on the Attack Titan I won’t put any spoilers here but I see why you selected as a not the main character and I appreciate that future chapter plug. My only feedback is it’s still technically from one person’s “interaction” with the Titan.
I gave you some more points for carrying your multis across bars and referencing them later

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Vocals mix was crispy, didn’t clash frequencies of the drums which is good because I’m guessing the prominent frequencies of the vocals partially overlapped with verse kick.
The beat was a little repetitive minus the last minute, my suggestion would be to make some sequence adjustments after receiving the vocals at the measure level to put emphasis on the additional musical instrument (vocals).
Would like to see you experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me).

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Yes challenge details were met

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out. Your sauce the Big Tymer feel - I don’t know if you meant to do it but I enjoyed it!

Total Score: 7.25

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Decent writing but the POV is a bit murky to me. It falls into generic braggadocio at a lot of points, and while that’s not bad, per se, it detracts from me following the POV with focus. The performance is a bit spotty, with some breathless moments and rushed lines. Plus the delivery is a bit flat at times.That said, the hook is really catchy, and there’s some solid moments of writing.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

The mix is solid, mostly. There’s a panning pattern on the adlibs that is weirdly noticeable, especially considering that the adlibs are very present. I wish the vox sparkled a bit more in the hook. They feel bare. Aside from that, I enjoy the arrangement / composition, although it is a bit predictable. Cool instrumentation.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Love the sample use in this song. It gives the song a lot of energy and weight. The POV is decent, but as mentioned before, I think the focus is a bit meandering. It’s hard for me to differentiate this POV from the POV of a “hero” - short of doing a deep dive into the mythos. Multis are solid. I know the vocal sample is in there because of the info provided, but it’s super buried in the song, so I wish it’d been centered more.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). This is a competent entry, and I encourage ya’ll to keep tightening and pushing your detail work (in performance, production, how you meet the challenges) and you’ll see more points from me!

Favorite lyric: What you had for supper, is why you catching uppercuts

TOTAL SCORE: 7

RJ

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Talk about using every part of the cow. This song is dense with lyrics and exactly nails the time limit but I’m not sure what it’s trying to tell me. If I ever had a doctor that went berserk before going to work I’d likely find a different Primary Care Physician. Flow is solid and generally the performance has the right energy.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Digging the beat as it definitely drives the pace. Mixing doesn’t overpower. I’m not sure where this beat ties into the show though.

CHALLENGE (3): 1.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Vocalist check. Production on the other hand, I don’t know where the source sample is and the vocalist sample I can hear is deeeeeply buried in the chorus.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

I can tell there’s talent here but it needs honing.

Total Score: 5.5

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Make sure you write so you have space to take a breath, especially (2:17) - you sound like you are running outta gas.
In this song, how you're delivering your bars are very flat.
The hook is simple and catchy. This will definitely be something people will chant along with you.
Multis are there, but the flow becomes very samey. Producer: the vox are buried in the beat.
"What you had for supper is why you're catching uppercuts." - I like this line.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Backing vocals aren't lined up during the hook.
The hook mix sounds very different from how the verses are mixed. M
ovement in the instrumentation would make this song more dynamic. Play with the buildups into and out of the hooks because it sounds predictable right now.
Consider adding a beat drop. Not every end of a line needs dubs in this song.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
The challenge was met by both the vocalist and producer.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
[Review Text]

Total Score: 6

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 1/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 1/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

The production is a bit limited here, mixing could help a lot of the struggle with these drums. Volume problems with the drums not taking command. Vocals are very audible but do not sound like a part of the song and lay way on top. The Hook needs a bit more push to hit the epicness that it could be.
Total Score: 4

CMF

VOCALS (3): 1.25/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
First off appreciate the shoutout to Gunstar that’s one of the most underrated series of all time. I would say work on controlling your flow, you got pretty excited I could tell and sometimes you skipped ahead on the beat. Try to slot yourself in as complimentary to the instrumental and make sure you work in tandem with it versus it being something you rap on
Second piece of advice is give some breathing space in some lines here and there - basically don’t feel the need to fill every quarter note with vocals, but I enjoyed the content of the song.
I docked some for the multi execution

PRODUCTION (3): 1.25/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Vocal mixing was good - very clear and crisp
Balancing of instruments is something I’ll want you to pay attention to going forward!
Would like to see you experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me).

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Yes challenge details were met

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 5.5

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

There’s some really fun writing here, and I appreciate the energy you’re bringing. I enjoy the stripped down chorus so much, and I’m excited to see how you continue to play with voices and space in your writing. THAT SAID, the delivery here can get pretty rushed at times, and the rapping can get a bit monotonous. (where’s that hook energy in the verses?)

And my biggest issue here (which you’d think would be a production issue but i’m putting in your court). There’s never a moment in the verses where there’s only one take focusing my attention. The doubled, layered vox splits focus and doesn’t let me latch onto a strong, confident lead vox. I encourage you to avoid this, and really work at refining your lead takes (and trusting in them) rather than relying on the crutch of layered takes to hold up your vocals.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

There’s ideas in this composition that I really enjoy. In particular, the hook drop struck me as a bold choice, and I was down with it. The big issue here is the mix / instrumentation doesn’t really support the ideas. For example, that bass coming back in after the hook should have felt 5x thicker, w/ personality and presence. Instead, everything sits kinda flat and unoffensive, which surprised me tbh given the expectations set up at the top of the track.

CHALLENGE (3): 1/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

The POV is written pretty clearly here, and multis are there but not super engaging imo. Additionally, based on our info, there’s no vocal / source sample.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). While I may come across as a bit harsh in this review, the reality is there’s a lot of exciting ideas here that just need more time to develop and polish. I encourage ya’ll to take some time to listen critically to songs that sound (from an engineering /mixing point) like what you want your music to do, and then try and emulate them. Play with EQ/compression, panning/etc etc. There’s a vast tool kit to support the ideas ya’ll have rn, and I really look forward to hearing where striving for that polish + this competition takes you. <3

Favorite lyric: That giant boom made four new moons, five whoops I spoke too soon

TOTAL SCORE: 5

RJ

VOCALS (3): 1.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Flow occasionally gets out in front of the beat. I enjoy the switch up in the chorus but it kinda feels like when Wile E Coyote gets left standing in thin air after getting tricked off the side of a cliff. Lyrically I feel like this song is a bunch of buzzwords that don’t actually inform anything until about the last 8 bars.

PRODUCTION (3): 1.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

This beat is so close to being a DUNK. I want that chorus to have a nasty drop and it kinda just flops. Unfortunately this kinda leads to the rest of the song sounding flat and quiet.

CHALLENGE (3): 1.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

The POV is there. I really don’t see much from the samples and the multis are few and far between.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

This song. I feel like I can see the vision that’s there for it but the final score is death by a thousand cuts for me.

Total Score: 4.5

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Be mindful of your flow - you have the tendency to speed up faster than the beat at times.
Delivery is flat - don’t be afraid to bring that same energy in your hook to your verses.
The hook needs more layers.
You’re getting stuck in the same cadence thru the song. Vary up those bars even more so the song has more activity.
“FIGHT!” has got to be louder and more absolute. I would also layer this.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
The beat is minimal. Get more layers in the base and find more medium range elements to fill the beat.
AJB’s vocals can use some effects.
Vary up the beat. There’s not a lot of movement for AJB to play with, I recommend doing this
That chorus needs to be louder to catch the listener’s attention.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Both the vocalist and producer met the challenge.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 6

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

This track is decent all around. It needs something to make it step out of its comfort zone. I love the breakdown in the middle but the drum beat feels like a template drum beat. Mix is great, vocals are a little wet on the verb but otherwise that side is working well.
Total Score: 6

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.25/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Good energy and good execution on the multis, not much to complain about here you matched the beat well and look forward to seeing how you do the rest of the competition.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Thank you for the clarity of the vocals (as you’ll all notice the frequency clashing of vocals is a hot button for me). A little heavy on the reverb effect but mixed well.
Very interesting layering - you didn’t get the same feedback I’ve given everyone else. I like the interruption halfway through which gives a completely different feel to the song momentarily. Keep doing stuff like this to paint the sonic landscape
Would have liked to hear a few different beat patterns or drum switch ups

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Yes challenge details were met

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 7.25

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Cool writing and I enjoyed a lot about it, but the rhythms and momentum stayed at a fairly predictable pace throughout the song (my favorite lyric, listed below, is one of the exceptions to that). I largely enjoy your energy and presence though! A small nitpick, but the POV switches from 3rd person to 1st person near the top.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

I really enjoyed the bitcrushing switch ups and sections. Really fun. Coulda trimmed like 20 seconds from this song to keep it lean, though. The mix in general is a bit underwhelming, with the (way too present) bass getting a bit crunchy and buzzy in the mid-highs (and nothing else really meshing with it to create an interesting soundscape). The drums in particular sound v generic.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Source samples are there, but the ideas are a bit disjointed. Multis are solid, as is the POV. What’s the vocalist sample? If there is one (that isn’t the “world on fire” sample”) it hasn’t been prioritized well in the mix.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). In future rounds, I’m interested in hearing ya’ll demonstrate a bit more dynamic range (in performance and composition), and v curious to see what ya’ll come up with. Take some extra time to really customize your instrumentation choices too! Good luck <3

Favorite lyric: I'm at peace with the vault loads of vagrants

TOTAL SCORE: 6

RJ

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Very impressed with the amount of tightening up Banditt’s delivery got between Round 0 and Round 1. I dig the mix of punchlines and landscape painting throughout the whole song. The energy is strong, certainly something I’d want for an uptempo part of a run or bike ride.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

The driving tempo works great with the vocalist. The track feels nice and full. I feel like the “I don’t want to set the world on fire” really kills the tempo and even the mix back into the beat feels forced. On the flip side the quick “are you good to keep going?” sample was perfectly fitting for a drop back into the lyrics.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

POV is a big check. Source samples are clearly there, but I don’t know where the vocalist samples are. Vocalist challenge is complete.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

That hard stop in the middle is just so jarring it’s hard to say it’s got the extra juice

Total Score: 8

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Great multis. Be careful to not get sucked into the same cadence. This happens in (0:52-1:10).
Delivery is good.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
The vocals are getting lost in the beat, I like the transition from "I Don't Want To Set The World On Fire" in the beginning.
When this break comes back in (1:11), the transition is awkward.
I like the punch-ins with Nick Valentine's lines.
There's a lot of sound effects from Fallout included in the end that would have been better woven into the song itself.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
The vocalist and producer met their respective challenges.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 6

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

This beat does it for me. I was not in love with the change up at the beginning of the verse but as soon as it switched back over I was all the way back in. Vocals are riding great over the beat and the second verse plays well with the bass line. I wish the vocal effects were a bit more playful to pull this track in the top notch. Extra sauce
Total Score: 8

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I had high expectations here and you did not disappoint, great delivery and solid job on your multis
Creative character to use hahah I thoroughly enjoyed this

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Funky beat let’s go!
Great vocal mixing and using the beat change ups to compliment the lyrics, I would agree with Bill and say try adding splashes of vocal effects (maybe octave changes) to add that extra sauce
You didn’t get the feedback I gave to most producers also, I want to see you painting sonic landscapes and you added/remove elements throughout the song. Not only changed scales but you changed keys completely

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Yes challenge details were met

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out. Your sauce was the changes in the instrumental for the last minute / just the unique character picked

Total Score: 9

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Really enjoyed the writing here. I wish there was a bit more energy in the performance (Especially around the hook), but there’s definitely a vibe and mood that comes across well, and rides the beat well. That said, there’s some word swallowing and breathless moments in the delivery. Fun shit

PRODUCTION (3): 2.75/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Love the interplay between the sample and the bassline, and I think there’s some really enjoyable arrangement decisions (especially with the melody that comes in on the back third). Smart choices w/ the soundscape. However, the mix in general is a bit flat, and the vocals in particular could have sparkled a bit more. The mix/master is where I think this song coulda spent a bit more tooling time.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Solid source sample, and I l o v e the vocalist sample use here. Really fun multis and the POV is clear. GG.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). This one is close, but not quite there. I really enjoyed this song though, and encourage ya’ll to continue challenging yourselves in the engineering / post-production phase of these entries. <3

Favorite lyric: Museum security staff murderer

TOTAL SCORE: 8.25

RJ

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
The flow feels laid back but not lackadaisical. Lyrics seem to match the character well and provide a good introduction, maybe a little portrait painting.

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Absolutely love the opening drop. Mix sounds good. The source samples fit in very well. The An Hobbes turned into a villager samples tie the whole thing together.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

The samples worked into the beat were great and turning An Hobbes into a villager might be a bit on the nose but it works in so well. Vocalist challenge is complete as well.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

I’m always going to have a hard time giving chilled out songs points for popping

Total Score: 8.5

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Delivery is laid back and confident. "...merchant sure/curvature/interpretator/it's worth it sir" - all of those rhyme and are not predictable.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Vocalists sit nicely on top of the baseline and drum. These sound balanced.
Reduce the amount of reverb on An Hobbes' vocals.
I enjoy that bass line woven thruout the song, especially thru the second verse.
Are those bongos?

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
The vocalist and producer met the challenge.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
After hearing this, I'm reconsidering buying Animal Crossing, but tbh it's still not gonna happen until they let me craft weapons to protect me and mines.

Total Score: 8

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
[Review Text]

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
[Review Text]

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
[Review Text]

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
[Review Text]

Might be the best beat this round for me. The amount of change ups and low end really do it for me. This is the type of thing you need to do with a rapper that can slide in and out of different styles. Only thing I didn't like was the hook. As soon the verse hook hit the hook was forgivable. Wish it had a bit more vocal effects that played a bit more. Extra sauce.

Total Score: 9

CMF

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
You know I’m gonna be picking you apart since we are friends lol - I caught the intro reference as well. I am glad to see you came with 100% Desh - really great slotting into the beat I actually think this was one of your cleanest deliveries I’ve heard from you too
Multis obviously all there I think that is what you do in most of your songs anyway but yeah not much else to say here great job

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
This is a tough one to sample (Big Band Jazz is just tough to sample in general). There was a lot going on in the beat but I never lost track of the vocalist so awesome job there
I think the reverb was a little heavy at parts considering the original sample contains a lot of trumpets doing sharp runs and a the walking bass - I think it would have been good to bring in the reverb at the 2:00 mark where the piano and saxophones came in
Would like to see you CONTINUE to experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me). You did it in this song so want to encourage you to continue on with it

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Yes challenge details were met

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0.5/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out. The whole song was sauce for me it was just overall a song I would listen to again. I only gave half a point due to the reverb I mentioned above

Total Score: 9

Navi

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Desh, I’m gonna nitpick some stuff here, but I’m giving you full points regardless cuz I do think that, at its core, the vocals in this track are nasty good. Your technique, presence, and energy are vibrantly noticeable, so kudos. I wish i’d seen a bit more of a direct connection to Jet in the Hook, but i won't hold that against you. My one note would be, sometimes in your faster lines/sections, you sacrifice clarity for flow ~ and I just want you to be aware that it can occasionally lead to aural oversaturation and everything blurring into a word mash

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

If I had to describe this production in one word, it’d be “ambitious”. There’s a LOT of ideas going on in this song. Oftentimes it works really well. I think the sample flipping is S-tier, with some v v cool stuff going on. However, I think clarity of mix was sacrificed for these ideas. The guitar that drives the bulk of the mix is really muddy and underwhelmingly mixed. There’s moments where there’s so much going on that my ear doesn’t know what to focus on, and the balance / engineering doesn’t help guide/showcase the ride. Plus, (as mentioned in my vocalist note) there’s a lot of moments where Desh’s flow veers close to wordmash, and mixing him this wet doesn’t do that any favors.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Duh. Great work on all challenge fronts. In particular, really smart use of vocalist samples.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). This one came really fucking close, but the mix/master issues kept it from crossing the line for me. I promise you I love the ambition and idea showcase that this presents. I just want to remind ya that in the time constraints of this compo, you gotta give ample time to road test these kinda ambitious demos and make sure the mix engineering really scaffolds it and makes it pop. I have faith in ya <3

Favorite lyric: Might try to gamble with the Woolongs / You can’t even handle what my GroupOn

TOTAL SCORE: 8.5

RJ

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Desh’s flow is going to be hard to touch in this competition and everyone knows it. The lyrics paint a great picture that could almost be used for just a Jet montage opening. And the energy perfectly matches the rest of the track.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Such an awesome flip of this song. Taking something so dynamic and keeping Desh audible is impressive. My only nitpick is I feel like the guitar slide sound from the intro kinda gets lost and it’s such a driving force in the song.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Vocalist and Producer challenges met. The vocal sampling could have been more obvious or not just beatbox noises.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

I have my minor gripes but this track would explode in a hall.

Total Score: 9

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
The throwback is a flex.
Cleanest delivery I've heard from Desh.
Something to note here - in places, it's Desh's flow that remains the same while Ryako's beat moves around it (0:52-1:12).

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Let the brass be a little brighter during the hook.
There's a lot of great movement in this beat.
During "You're in my space/This is my race" - the mids get muddled here and the drama of the build up gets lost, especially at the end.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Both the vocalist and producer met the challenge
Despite mids being muddled in places, this is still a well done song.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
Fuckin WERK, fam.

Total Score: 9

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 0/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 0/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 1/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

This song was the hardest one to listen to for me. The beat is missing an overall structure making it almost impossible for the vocalist to keep up. Mix is really low for both the beat and vocals, yet the chip sound is extra loud. On the rap side, I think there could have been a better way to take this beat but these two things did not end up connecting. Suggestion is to stick with a 4/4 drum beat and build off that. Make sure you don't give your teammate a curveball and possibly crash the overall track. I hope they return next round with better communication.
Total Score: 1

CMF

VOCALS (3): 0.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
First off kudos to putting your stuff out there because I know how that can be but this is a competition so I will have to give you some what I hope is constructive feedback. I would start by creating the structure you want for the song to help drive your writing so like - Do I want to do 2 verses and a hook between the two verses? Ok I’ll do a 16 bar verse, an 8 bar hook and then a second 16 bar verse. Each of those bars will be 4 beats long? Cool there is your structure. It came across as more of a brain spill of what you were writing and part of that is on the producer because this is a team created art piece and the instruments were all in different time signatures.
I did enjoy that you added some singing to give different dynamics

PRODUCTION (3): 0.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Same feedback I’m providing the vocalist which is all constructive. Your instruments are all in different time signatures, so plan out the beat structure before you start composing next team and discuss that framework with your teammate so they can start planning their writing.
Multis were kind of there scattered in, the execution could use a little more umph but they were there!

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Multis were in there, POV was executed - I hear some tape sampling so I’m going to assume that’s the vocalist being sampled

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 3

Navi

VOCALS (3): 1/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

While I think the energy in the vocals was about as infectious as it could be, all things considered. These vocals are so meandering and unfocused. There’s a complete disconnect with the instrumental that almost feels intentionally dadaist. The writing goes all over the place.

PRODUCTION (3): 1/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

This beat is so static and flat, plus there’s a lot of points where it feels less like rhythm, and more like an approximate copy pasta of rhythm (without being quantized). There’s some really interesting instrumentation in the soundscape, but there’s no dynamics, attention to detail, or support for the vocals.

CHALLENGE (3): 1.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

POV is there, and multis exist, albeit fairly uninspired and simple, The vocalist sample is pretty cool, but I can’t really make out the source sample.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). Hi. I wanna stress that I didn’t get really nitpicky about engineering / songwriting stuff because this score boils down to one issue ~ Ya’ll need to find your shared communication on a song rn. Ngl if ya’ll submit a track for r2 that is the most boring boilerplate beat (but it’s on beat) with the most generic vocals (but they’re in rhythm and locked into the structure of the song) it will be a dramatic step forward in my mind. Something isn’t clicking here in the collaboration + shared space of the work. Please spend some time with that, and then we’ll go from there. <3

Favorite lyric: Watashi wa obsessive

TOTAL SCORE: 3.5

RJ

VOCALS (3): .5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

This is not the way to get a song stuck in your head. The rhymes are predictable. The delivery feels like it’s never confident in what it’s doing, which might actually fit the aesthetic I dunno.

PRODUCTION (3): 0/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Myk, please take some advice from some of the other producers in the competition because I don’t even think this qualifies as a beat.

CHALLENGE (3): 1/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

POV is a check but that’s about it.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

No

Total Score: 1.5

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 0/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Sing and rap those vocals from the diaphragm. Everything right now sounds like it's coming from head voice.
There are multis in this song, but the rest of the lyrics don't follow any rhyme scheme and have any impactful bars.

PRODUCTION (3): 0/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Tempo changes without any rhyme or reason.
This sounds like a loop that was just put on repeat until the verse was done.
There wasn't structure for Stalara to frame her lyrics with.
No mixing or eq sounds present.
The melody of the beat clashes with Stalara's voice.
Get instruments and sounds of different ranges to add to the piece and that won't compete with the vocalists' contribution.

CHALLENGE (3): 1/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Stalara rapped from Black Lady’s POV and included a multi. Her part meets the challenge of the round.
This song sounds like two different ideas put together without thought to rhythm and musicality.
There are elements that have potential to pass as a working piece, but this song as it is is not that.
Find a way to create some system for how y'all work together to construct a piece because this song is not a reflection of your team's potential.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 1

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

A ton of good things happening here but nothing is standing out enough to push it to the top. Beat is solid and has some great change ups, vocals ride well but nothing extremely memorable. Another one where they didnt use the vocal effect to really add value to the overall track. I think this team will be strong once it catches its stride this year.
Total Score: 6

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Solid delivery! One thing to pay attention to is to take some quarter note or eighth note breaks if you are trying to end your last word on the 4th beat of the measure. A few places you had to hold your words longer to connect your entire sentence. If you pause and take that breather, you’ll get the same effect of ending on the 4th beat without having the random elongations of words
Multis on deck so thumbs up there

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
I really like this beat! One thing I wish you would have done was at the end let the beat ride for a measure or two versus doing a drop out. The hook section was perfect selection too
Vocal mixing was good, they were clear but the last 30 seconds it got a little tough to hear the vocals when the beat got heavier
You didn’t get the feedback I gave to most producers also, I want to see you painting sonic landscapes and you added/remove elements throughout the song. There was a lot of great progression in the beat structure as well as the instruments I loved the adding of the orchestral part at 1:30

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 7.5

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

I thought the performance was a lil flat, but not bad considering the POV portrayed. There’s some awkward phrasing delivery at times, and the writing falls into wordmash at some points (Which, paired w/ the flat performance, tends to make me subconsciously tune out). That said, the POV was well written, and I enjoyed the hook a lot. Verse 2 is cool too.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.75/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

The mix is pretty solid, and I like the diverse beat progression (and given I know the source material, it made me squee a bit to hear it). It relies fairly heavily on the samples to drive the emotions of things, but that isn’t necessarily bad. I’m a bit meh on how it just ends though. In general, solid work.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Strong POV and multis. Source samples are there as well. I’m a bit meh on how the vocalist sample was used as it’s less built into the beat and more a solo/hook phrase.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). This is cool and I’m excited to hear where ya’ll go next in the compo. I encourage some more focus on vocal presence and deliberate, sharp writing. Good luck! <3

Favorite lyric: Eight legs, twin fangs, big gang Leave the whole town of York New in pain

TOTAL SCORE: 7.25

RJ

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Flow is on point and the lyrics give me a sense of a character I’m honestly not familiar with. I feel like the overall performance is pretty solid but it feels like in some cases the rhyming pairs lost their punch. “I forged this gang in devotions flame/Then quenched the blade in our ocean of pain” particularly sticks out to this point

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

The beat flip into the second verse is very attention grabbing. Beat to vocal mix sounds good. Yeah overall just a solid track.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Another sample at the start song. POV checked off and multis are there. The vocal sample simply being a dj scratch kinda falls into the same box as beatboxing for me.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

I still feel like this is a mid set track not an opener or closer

Total Score: 7.5

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Polish your delivery - you're sounding flat at the end of your bars in the hook and thru the 2nd verse.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Turn down the mids - they are clashing with Skeptik's vocals.
I like those drums.
(2:10): Turn the guitar a touch down.
(2:34): I like the choir that comes in there.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Dubldragon fulfilled the challenge requirements.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 6

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

So much here. So So much. As an engineer I don't want to like this but I am also amazed as to what happens in this track. This beat is so much. THe bass is so beefy and the overall mix is absolutely dirty and beautiful at the same time. So much. The vocals are crazy and the panning is so good. The distortion on the vocals were a little over distorted (engineering ears) and that's the only thing keeping this from a perfect score. So so much.
Total Score: 8

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.25/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Love the energy, the multis were on point & the last line was great lol. I don’t have a lot of feedback other than keep doing what you’re doing!

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
This is so interesting in a good way, I’m not sure what I expected when I first heard it but I was enjoying the panning and interesting instruments then all of a sudden I got slapped with the surprise. Initially I thought “WHAT HAPPENED WITH THE VOCALS” then I was like “oh art!” And I enjoyed it lol
I love the vocal samples too - I just like a lot about this instrumental. There is a lot going on in the track and that can be risky but I think it paid off because you executed it well
I did have some trouble following the vocalist with the bass even though I liked it - it just took a few listens for me to really be clear on things going on to score the vocalist correctly. I also had to turn down and turn up at some points because of the broad application of the distortion.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Yes the challenge details were met

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
It was just saucy, it caught me by surprise and I enjoyed it so you get the sauce point.

Total Score: 8.25

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

There’s an extent to which judging lyrics in an expressionistic track like this is counterproductive to the song. On a surface aesthetic level, what’s being said is less important to the conceptual mood and framework than how it’s presented. By its nature, this type of music eschews complex and detailed writing/performance in favor of the big picture. That said, this is as much a vocalist competition, so I have to put a critical lens to this. I will say that my personal preference is never to need the lyrics in front of me to follow what is being said, and that’s where my biggest fault with the vocals here is. I couldn’t follow 85% of it on a casual listen. What’s clear on that first take is there is some sort of emotional, solidly performed vocal, but what’s being said was hard to quantify. Repeated listens (and the lyrics) got me there, but there’s always gonna be a fine line with how antagonistic you can get with your audience while still expecting them to pay close / repeated attention to the song.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Same deal as above. Technically and conceptually, I think this song is extremely successful at detailed, intricate production and mood setting around the POV in big expressionist strokes. That said, this went one step over my threshold for enjoyability (and I’m someone who enjoys concentrated, focused audio terrorism). My personal taste with noise will always lean towards intentionality > oversaturation. Especially when production like this has the potential to cause actual harm to a listener. Having to listen to it 7-8 times on repeat to build my critique gave me a ringing headache and I had to take a break from judging to let my ears clear up before I could approach the next track. I’m still giving high points here cuz I know the kind of work and detailing that went into this, but I want to encourage you to consider this the more extreme end of the sonic textures ya’ll are looking to explore in the compo.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Solid POV and mood. Solid multis. The samples used (vocal and source) both really clearly support the mood and POV on a conceptual level. nice work.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). I made a lot of broader points above, and I wanna clarify that I really love that ya’ll come original out of the gate. Much props for taking risks and going a less crowd-pleasing route and finding a signature sound. I love and support that. I encourage ya’ll to continue to explore what the balance is between listenability and noise, but with intention and control (and accessibility) in mind.

Favorite lyric: fuck dads every day.

TOTAL SCORE: 8

RJ

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

I think for what’s trying to be accomplished here the flow meshes very well with the beat. The performance is a level of energy I can only describe as “the most”. Lyrically the story paints a pained and violent story that’s really attention grabbing.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

OK. I don’t think I’ve ever had as hard of a time learning the lyrics to a song as this one. When I can barely read what’s in front of me because of how loud the song is it might be a scooch too much. The aesthetic of “channel an avatar of anger” does solidly come through though.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

I feel like I inherently can’t give full points for the producer side of this challenge. I am certain Selene is in there as a screech noise but when I can’t tell it apart it may as well not be there. I will give credit for the “I love my friends” though. Other than that the POV and Multis are great

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

It’s definitely extra but I don’t think it’s the right something (at least this time around)

Total Score: 7

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
What I like about the lyrics in Playtime is that the cadence changes seamlessly without detriment to the flow ("I don't wanna play no more, forewarning/").
There's a grit in Selene's delivery that captures a lot of the hurt and anger of Spinel whether or not the listener has seen the movie.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
I like the filters used on Selene's vocals - gives the impression of Spinel glitching.
There's times where the distortion is much and it gets in the way of powerful parts of the lyrics ("narcissist in charge" and "target shaped grin").
The industrial vibe of Playtime is not something that I would immediately match with Spinel's character and it still very much works.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Both vocalist and producer met the challenge.
The team executed this well. This is a different approach to the hurt and anger that Spinel experiences at the hands of Pink Diamond and this style draws the listener in.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 8

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
[Review Text]

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
[Review Text]

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
[Review Text]

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
[Review Text]

Beats on point. Raps on point. Group name should have been Firepoint. I love the vibe of the beat. mix is great and the drums have a great punch. I would suggest pushing a bit more grit and rawness for the vocalist to really go off. Raps on point! tons of great bits in here, I would have loved to seen the rapper hit the vocals a little harder with a bit more energy. Firepoint.
Total Score: 7

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.75/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
This delivery was on point I love it, the multis were sooooo good. This vibe I’m here for

PRODUCTION (3): 2.25/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
You didn’t get the feedback I gave to most producers also, I want to see you painting sonic landscapes and you added/remove elements throughout the song. I will encourage you to do more drum swap ups / pulling out beat elements (drop a snare for a bar then the high hat after etc…) but I thoroughly enjoyed the entire vibe of this song
The vocal effects were on point but try to bring Mark a little more forward in the mix, whatever his main frequency is either not raised enough or being overshadowed by the instrument frequencies

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details were met

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
THE HOOK WAS SO SAUCY! That was my sauce, when you changed octaves and hit that autotune effect (maybe you just hit the notes too well) I legit went “OOOOOO!” I listened to this several times even though I was behind on judging haha

Total Score: 9

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2.75/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Ok some nitpicks first: there’s some breath issues at certain points, and some of the more gimmicky references don’t resonate w/ me as much as if the POV had been more intentionally focused. That said, there’s a lot of smart writing here and memorable moments. The performance is confident, and there’s a solid balance of technical skills and versatility on display.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.75/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

I wish the verse vocals were a bit more upfront in the mix. They’re mixed a bit timidly, and I would like to hear something a bit more brash and bold to match the persona. The vocal processing on the hook is gorgeous though. Great work. The beat is super lush. Solid instrumentation (although that high tone filtered synth was very noticeable throughout.) I wanted a bit more dynamic variation in the sections of the beat, but I largely enjoyed what I heard.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.75/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Points slightly docked cuz the scratched vocal sample is a bit less of a “Beat” element and more of a lead/solo sound. If there’s other vocal samples used in the beat, they’re pretty buried. Other than that, all challenges met extremely clearly.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). This is a solid entry and I’m very hype to see what this team comes up with. I think for me the biggest note I can give is to continue to develop the focus and detail work around these songs. Excited to hear more <3

Favorite lyric: You burn bridges I move bridges in my direction (ungggg)

TOTAL SCORE: 8.25

RJ

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

The delivery takes a nice smooth sunday drive on this beat. There’s a lot of fun wordplay in these bars but I feel like that’s the main thrust of this song. I know it’s about Magneto but is he actually doing anything or just flipping through facebook describing people?

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Like I said in the vocals section this beat is some top down driving music. Mix feels like it sits exactly where it needs to with the beat cradling mark’s lyrics.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Another (very short) sample to start the song. The only use of vocalist sampling I could notice was at the very end and it kinda just felt tossed in there. The POV is there and so are the multis.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
[Review Text]

This is a jam but I think it needs a more focused direction lyrically

Total Score: 7

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Multi's are skillfully woven within the bars. They are interesting and have a hint of battle rap to them - especially during the second verse.
I like the chorus - there are different layers here that fill it out.
(1:35): Be mindful of breath control in this area you have bars here that are dope and while you do get them out, they’re not as powerful as they could be.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
I recommend synching the backing vocals tighter.
I hear a lot of reverb that can be turned down a touch.
The mix is a little light.
Bigger drums needed.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
The challenge requirements were met.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
This is giving me some early aughts vibes and I’m not mad.

Total Score: 9

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

This has tribe vibes all over this intro and also make me think of Atmosphere - coming back home. Familiarity can do a lot for a track and hold a listener. I like the vibe of the track, the mix is a little thin, I would love a bit more low end to fill out overall beat. Vocals are on point, grreat rhyme structure in the verses. Hook could have had a bit more flavor to it but the it still gets that extra sauce.
Total Score: 7

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I like the multis and I actually felt that’s what like Ryuk would have sang this hook like. Good execution and character assimilation! I know you do lots of cross bar multis so I figured you would do really well on this challenge and you did not disappoint!

PRODUCTION (3): 1.75/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Yes on the sample thank you!
I wish you would have brought Storyville more to the front of the beat, his higher frequencies are pretty clear so he was crisp but he started to get drowned towards the end of the last verse
Would like to see you experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me). You did some of this in the second verse so just keep experimenting and taking it to the next level!

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge was executed - I recognized the sample and took me back in time

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 7.25

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

This hook has some personality, but that flat delivery unintentionally makes it (and the subsequent verses) monotonous moreso than they should be. It’s one of those things where by naming the emotion, you reference it in a way you don’t necessarily want your audience relating to. (they’re so bored? Me too) There’s some awkward / forced flow moments, but otherwise, this is solid writing with some witty wordplay. Points nixed for delivery and song presence.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Ooh, my friend, these drums are so basic. They sound like the default sounds you get with freeware DAWs. There’s some decent sample usage, but the song is heavily driven by them, and relies on them more than they should. The overall composition lacks any dynamic variance or detail work in the mix/master stage - ie: it feels very flat despite a decent amount of stuff happening. I do enjoy your sample decisions tho.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Solid POV and multis, and I’m assuming these are Death Note samples? That said, I couldn’t clearly make out a vocalist sample if one exists so :shrug:

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). Friend, always be wary of telegraphing things your audience may subconsciously end up feeling about your song if you don’t want them to feel that way. Ya’ll have the basics of performance and production down pretty well, so my suggestion would be working to expand your versatility, sound, and engineering to that next level now. Really work on detailing the drafts. Good luck <3

Favorite lyric: Hmmmm.... humans are so interesting

TOTAL SCORE: 6.5

RJ

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Stylistically I get what this song is doing, and it does it well. Problem is I think lyrics about being bored are in fact boring. The nice part is that’s not most of this song but it’s what sticks with me. I think the actual verses of this song do a great job of introducing the concepts of the source material. The delivery is solid.

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

For as minimal as this song is it’s still got a good richness to it. I like the anime style trope of going with a simple song and then making it more intense for the final verse. I don’t know if that was intended but it’s a nice touch.

CHALLENGE (3): 1.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

I’m struggling to notice any vocal or source sample. Vocalist challenge checks out.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Yeah I just don’t think the bored song would grab me

Total Score: 7

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
This is giving me Atmosphere vibes.
I really like the raspiness of the chorus.
All of the elements that make Ryuk who he is in Death Note is all here, but not in a way that seems like a book report. This is Ryuk in the vocals.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Layer those drums, right now the beat sounds a little bare bones.
Turn down those chords during the vocals.
(1:07, 2:13 - "six Point six") I'm hearing some pop coming thru on Storyville's vocals that need to go thru some careful pop reduction and EQing.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Both the vocalist and producer met the challenge.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
[Review Text]

Total Score: 7

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

The bar as been set. This is the energy I want to see, this team came to play. When that bass hits the full energy of the track is laid out on the table. Hats come in and the bop shows itself. Vocals speed up to show the skill and makes everyone else sit down. Great track. Extra sauce.
Total Score: 9

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.75/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I mean I had high expectations of you and you delivered. Your multis were on point, the breathing you give the instrumental to make your points and do your punchlines are on point throughout the entire song. Love the switch up on your delivery speed as well, it gave an added level of dynamics to the song without having to add an instrument

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Osiris was pretty clear and easy to hear throughout the entire song so thank you for this, you weren’t docked any points for this :) Also thank you for the level of reverb not being too much
I like the beat but I feel like Osiris came super epic and the beat almost doesn’t match his energy around 0:50
Would like to see you experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me). At 1:30 is a good example of you doing this so keep executing and look forward to seeing more of it!

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details executed

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 8.75

Navi

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Here’s my only nitpick ~ I can’t pick out a single line that is a stand-alone firework of a bar. There’s a general standard of success here that works really well - the attitude, the confidence, the clarity, the smart (albeit predictable) rhyme development...it all showcases a shitton of skill. That said, no line really hit me as “omg what a fucking bar”. Still getting a 3 though cuz this is pro-grade.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

This mix is a bit flat, and the engineering doesn't really support the vocal performance with flair or pizzazz. I really enjoyed this instrumentation and it develops and moves really nicely, however it lacks that spark that comes with detailed post-processing. That said, the drum writing was solid and there were some great choices made w/ how the beat developed.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Challenge met on all counts.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). This comes close, but no cigar. For me, its the post production detailing that keeps this track from being next level. I’d suggest ya’ll make sure to block off days each round to give that mixing / engineering work the time it needs to truly blossom. This is a team I’m pretty hyped about. <3

Favorite lyric: I think y’all funny/ I like y’all bloody

TOTAL SCORE: 8

RJ

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Flow is solid if simple for osiris. Strong delivery across the whole song. I can’t not think of the shrek “It’s all ogre now” meme for that hook. I also feel like more could have been done on this song as it’s only got 1 real verse in it and is mostly hooks and bridges.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

I think Riot might have more samples on this beat than the source material but I’ll address that later. Like the volume mix. Beat slaps and I’m sure sounds great in the studio. It’s kind of a simple trap beat though.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Bookmarking source samples. Using Osiris on the hook as a back and forth with himself completes the challenge but could have been a bit more creative. Vocalist challenges met.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Seems like a good start for a team with a lot of potential but I’m not quite there yet

Total Score: 7

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Cadence transitions move seamlessly.
The aggression of this track speaks to me on so many levels.
Be mindful of “p” sounds when recording. Minimize that as much as possible in the booth to get RiotOnTheBeat the best take you can get.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
The addition of the subtle claps elevates and progresses the song. Without them the song is at risk of getting monotonous.
(0:59): "Then we can PARTY" - There's a couple of pops I'm hearing in Osiris' vocals so be mindful to take a pass at the song once more to reduce that.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Both the vocalist and producer met the challenge requirements.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
This song makes me wanna sock someone on the side of their hoe ass face.
I unironically love airhons.

Total Score: 9

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

decent vibe and mix on this one. the beat is decent and pulls the listener down a path. Vocalist also keeps up with the beat. Sadly it is missing that special touch to elevate. This team has potential to be very strong once it clicks.
Total Score: 6

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.25/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
When I first saw the title I was like “this better be good” and you had me laughing at the first few lines so good job. I enjoyed the breathing room you gave the beat in those first measures then picked up the quantity of syllables as the beat also progressed and added elements
Y’all should know I love Ludacris by now so I appreciate the old school throwback
Your delivery was just overall good and fun, keep up the good work

PRODUCTION (3): 1.75/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
My only issue I have is the mixing of the vocals - it was really hard to hear the vocalist in the hook and parts of the second verse. You have to treat the vocals as an instrument in your stack that needs to be near the front of the mix unless there is an artistic reason to hide it behind another instrument for a measure or so
The adding elements to make the entire song a sonic landscape is one of the things I’m nitpicky about as a judge so you got some points back here

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details met, assuming the source sample is the piano. If it’s not you got a free point from me

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 7

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Decent writing here, but the POV veers into the realm of generic sometimes - which is regrettable because I love this fandom choice (Fauxlivia Stan here) and when the POV hits, it hits well. There’s some forced punchlines, but in general the performance is engaging and fun, and I appreciate the creativity in the POV choice~

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

There’s a lot of solid composition ideas and I see what you’re going for with your dynamic decisions. I really dig the work put in here, however I do feel that a lot more time coulda been spent in the post-processing mixing phase to really make these ideas pop. The guitar is too loud and overbearing, and the mix gets super muddy when it gets more dynamic. The bass and vocal synth compete for space, and the hook gets buried by all the stuff going on. Dig the effort, but ya didn’t quite stick the landing.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.75/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Solid POV. Multis are ok but somewhat boilerplate writing decisions. Sampling is great, and as far as the vocal synth? Big if true!

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). I’m really excited to have ya’ll on my radar. This checks a lot of my aesthetics, but it’s not quite there yet. My suggestion would be to keep doing what yer doing, but make sure to build in time for your mixing ears to get some time with the demos ya’ll make before it gets submitted. I think that would make ya’ll some dangerous competitors <3

Favorite lyric: Get out the way bish' Get out the way

TOTAL SCORE: 7.75

RJ

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Really like the strong confident delivery of such a ridiculous topic. I don’t know who the Bishop is but fuck him. Catchy hook in addition.

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

This is one of the better produced tracks in this round. Going as far as (what sounds like) using the different seasons opening keys as your samples. The guitar track rips. The breakdown is a fun surprise. I really have no negatives for this submission.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Source Sample is there, but I can’t hear a vocal one. Vocalist challenges are Complete

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

This shreds and I would love to hear it with live instrumentation and 3000 bodies in a hall

Total Score: 9.5

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 1/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I appreciate the energy in Hard Corey's delivery.
I'd like to see more internal multis from this vocalist - the skill is there to pull those off, but this song didn't highlight that as it should.
Be mindful to not get stuck in the same flow for too long.
(1:27): "awful pets/compliments" - the delivery here is awkward with the pause.
Rework these bars to land that multi gracefully.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
The synths are really loud during the verses - turn those down so Hard Corey can be highlighted.
I like how the instruments come together during the chorus. That being said, these sections still overpower the vocals.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
The team met the requirements of the challenge.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 5

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
[Review Text]

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
[Review Text]

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
[Review Text]

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
[Review Text]

This one's fun. It has a bop to is but the hook seems to derail the track and makes it feel like a parody song. I do want to hear the next round from this team and see if they can bring something that blows us all away.

Total Score: 6

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
NOT RANDOM CAVE GUY NUMBER 2 LOL
The energy definitely matches the character, this is fun and had me bopping my head - I wish it were longer

PRODUCTION (3): 1.75/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
My only issue I have is the mixing of the vocals - it was really hard to hear the vocalist in the hook and parts of the second verse. You have to treat the vocals as an instrument in your stack that needs to be near the front of the mix unless there is an artistic reason to hide it behind another instrument for a measure or so
Normally I’ve been taking points off for doing less progression in beats but it actually worked here, I heard kind of a twerk beat at the start and was ready to party. I do wish you would have not ended with a complete drop out, don’t treat everything as one package that starts or ends at the same time. Each instrument needs to come in and exit with purpose including your drum pieces (kicks, high hats, snares).

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details met, I’m fairly confident I recognize the source sample if not, you got a free point from me! Vocal sample couldn’t hear

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 5.75

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2.75/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

This song knows what it wants to be with utter confidence and I don’t fault it one bit for that. Verse two feels a bit more phoned in than verse one, but I don’t hate it. The presence and performance is fun, and it doesn’t take itself too seriously. I might get dragged a bit for this, but I’m scoring this pretty high.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Solid mix, and this slaps like shit, but the soundscape / instrumentation is super basic 101 sounds all around. The song structure is nothing special either, but again ~ it’s fun and it bops and it sounds pretty decent.

CHALLENGE (3): 1.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

POV achieved. Multis are...passable for the context. Where is the vocal sample? Where is the source sample?

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). Ya’ll keep at it. I enjoyed this song. It’s not top tier for me, but go off, my thane. <3

Favorite lyric: Take your soup to elevate me

TOTAL SCORE: 6.75

RJ

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Simple and concise. I think there’s literally only one flow to this beat but you executed it. This is certainly performance art

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

I unironically like dumb hardstyle shit like this (parody or not) so. Mix isn’t overbearing which it certainly could have been.

CHALLENGE (3): 1/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

As far as I know the POV is the only successfully completed challenge here.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Not quite festival level yet

Total Score: 6.5

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 1/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Lyrics are very basic, but for how bouncy and dancy the beat is, it works.
I'm not seeing and hearing any multis.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
I like the build up in the beginning, but there's not a lot of movement other than that build up, plus synth, drop, repeat.
I don't care for the reverb in the chorus.

CHALLENGE (3): 1/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Johnny Salt raps as the character listed, but I don’t hear a source sample.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 4

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 1/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 1/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
[Review Text]

Is this a Tupac beat? This has some strong mid mid 90's west coast vibes. The beat is decent but feels like it's missing something. Vocals feel a bit off compared to the beat. I would like to see what this rapper does with a little bit faster beat. Right now they feel like they are stuck between 63 bpm and 126 bpm. 80 to 90 might fit them a bit better.
Total Score: 4

CMF

VOCALS (3): 1/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
You did some crossbar multis but not sure if you 100% meant to do them, try to structure your raps to fit into the 4/8 quarter note pairing. Good energy keep bringing that but give more structure to your delivery so it compliments the the song versus sounding like something driving next to the song at different speeds.

PRODUCTION (3): 1/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Vocal clarity was muddy - raise the upper frequencies of the vocalist please going forward
Want to see more progression in the instrumental, treat it like you’re painting a mountain in behind a lake with clouds and adding animals

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
I hear the multis and it sounds like it’s from a POV

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 4

Navi

VOCALS (3): 1.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

This song suffers from exposition wordmash. I lost focus on what was happening really quickly. It rambles and moves all over the place, with some pretty forced lines. The writing can get clever at times, but the endings rarely land, and the POV bounces all over the place as well. There’s some clipping in the takes as well and i’m putting it here instead of Production cuz that’s something that is (potentially) in how you recorded, and if so, you should be cognizant of when you record. Also, the adlib takes are super sloppy and detract from the lead vox.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

There’s a lot of mixing imbalance here - the snare in the hook is too loud, a lot of stuff is too quiet, or too bare - and nothing feels like its glued together well. There’s a lot of generic sounds (the piano is a particularly noticeable sore thumb), but I do like the sfx built into the beat. The droning bass sound is so uninteresting and vanilla. Plus there’s a lot of clipping in the vocals, which you, as producer, should flag in the raw takes from your vocalist. It’s super noticeable. Also the adlibs are mixed way too present for my tastes.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

I’m mixed on how well the POV was hit, but the sfx, multis, and vocal hook work really well for m.e

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). This feels like a first draft to me. I encourage ya’ll to really focus your work on tightening up performance and mixing for the next round. This just feels very disjointed and rough for a finished submission. Keep at it! <3

Favorite lyric: Bronze Fonz responds

TOTAL SCORE: 5.5

RJ

VOCALS (3): 1/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I have no idea what this flow is attempting to do. The lyrics completely lose me after the first verse. I don’t know what perspective it’s supposed to be coming from at that point. The performance has the right energy but at this point it’s misplaced.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

The mix on this is solid. The beat is pretty simple but does a good job of incorporating the challenge requirements. If this whole song was a Scotty dissing people track I would understand the aesthetic more but as it stands when the verses lose focus so does the beat.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Producer challenge was completed and it was nice to hear the samples used more fully throughout the whole song. Vocalist challenge complete but really could use multi work.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

I feel like the energy is there but this needs a few more passes.

Total Score: 5.5

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 1/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Less is more on some of these bars, there are areas where Ill Seer deviates from the rhythm of the beat because the lyrics are shoehorned in.
Be mindful of your tempo when rapping - there are parts of the song where you speed up without consideration to what the beat is doing.
The quality of the vocal recording is lacking. How is your mic set up? They sound soft and a touch muffled.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
I like how chunky that bass is.
The beat sounds balanced RE: how the high, medium, low ranges are mixed together, but the vocals aren't well mixed into this instrumentation.
(0:48 - "As an Admiral", 2:17 - "Captain's chair"): Check levels on Ill Seer's vocals - they sound like they are peaking, especially in these spots.
Backing vocals and main vocals need to be synched up tighter.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Ill Capwn & Al Seer met the requirements for this challenge.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 5

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 1/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 1/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Concept on point. Production lacking. The mix was all over the place and the vocal mix were on another planet. The distraction made it hard to listen. I think this track might have been a bit better if the vocals were tucked a bit in.
Total Score: 4

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I know when Ill Gill is on the track it’s going to be fun lol. It definitely was an Ill Gill track. Like the change in the vibes around 0:45 and the narration

PRODUCTION (3): 1.75/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
This beat was fun and fairly catchy but the vocals need to have more umph to them. They’re getting washed out by your leads. I heard more clarity in the ad libs than I did in the main vocals
Good job with the dynamics and progression of the songs

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 6.75

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

KKMDS always brings the presence and I appreciate that energy. That said, I miss some clarity in this performance. There’s a few lines that get swallowed, and the writing is somewhat generic at points, which detracts from the POV imo.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.25/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

The vocals feel really hollow, and I do wish they’d been centered in a more beefy way. The mix is pretty fun but there’s some slightly odd panning decisions. There could have been some more imaginative work with the composition around the supporting instruments. Everything just kinda does the most obvious thing it could do. That said, it is endearing.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

POV could have been more focused. Where was the vocal sample? Basic but fun use of a source sample. Yeah multis!

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). I feel like I don’t need to give this point to ya’ll cuz we all know KKMDS wins the VPC regardless of it. <3

Favorite lyric: monolitchic vhs gamera barugon

TOTAL SCORE: 6.25

RJ

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Flow fits the beat well. The lyrics exist but I don’t feel like they’re really telling me much more than loose references to the show. The delivery isn’t what I expected but it fits the vibe well.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

That switch up off the first beat made me sad. Good full sound overall in the mix. You did a great job of using your sample in the middle of the song as a bridge.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Source samples in full force and used well with the rest of the beat. Vocalist challenges weirdly completed. I wasn’t able to notice any vocalist samples.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

If there was some weird experimental space I could put this I’d try it but other than that I wouldn’t know what to do with it at the moment. Maybe next round.

Total Score: 6.5

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I appreciate Ill Gill's delivery and voice in this song.
It fits the vibe of MST3K and the beat.
"In the not too distant future's" a strong start to There Was A Guy Named Joel.
Ill Gill knows when to pause in between lyrics to give the beat some room to breathe and to vary up his flow.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
That synth is nice, and it's overpowering the rest of the beat.
Get more layers on that kick and snare so that the beat is more full.
The drops within the song are in good places, but because the beat feels empty, the change up isn't as noticeable.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Both vocalist and producer met the requirements of the competition.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 6

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Best Vine track if the round. Beat is roughly a 2 but them sweet vocals bring it all together at the end. Let's hope this team doesn't drop early. :)
Total Score: 7

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.75/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
This was hilarious and just fun to listen to. The multis were great. I’m super looking forward to hearing more.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.75/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
This instrumental was just GOOD it ebbs and flows like an ocean - doesn’t have a ton going on but the amount of breathing and minor changes that happen give it so much more which shows you don’t have to cram stuff in to make it good.
The vocals are CRISPY!!! OOOWEEEE
Pulling out pieces of the drums and instruments in mutually exclusive pulls is exactly the type of stuff I’m asking producers to do. It’s not difficult but it adds so much depth to the song as a whole

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
I was going to subtract for going over but I’m not mean like Navi haha. Actually if the song wasn’t so good I would have subtracted
I don’t care that the sample was a solo I’m about all of it

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
This whole song had the sauce for me. Definitely will relisten.

Total Score: 9.5

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2.75/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

There’s some really fun writing here, and an emphasis on punchlines that make for some memorable moments. There’s a bit of wordmush exposition, but the vocal presence and attitude make up for it. The POV is a bit more generic than focused but this is a solid vocal cut.

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Real clean mix, good pop on the master, and it’s well balanced. Plus the beat is super fun. No notes.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

POV a bit loosey goosey. Multis, duh. Solid Sample flip of the source. The Vocal sample is more of a solo than built into the beat, but it mostly works for me. Minus .25 for going :26 over the time limit.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). This team comes close to that extra sauce, but didnt quite make the cut. The only note I would give ya’ll is to make sure to showcase the challenges as best as possible. This is a dangerous team. <3

Favorite lyric: FUCK A GELFLING

TOTAL SCORE: 8.25

RJ

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Hand in glove for the flow on this one. It’s interesting to see such a complex diss track from an unexpected perspective. The performance on this is solid and confident in its relaxed stance of being too cool for school.

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
I think one of the nicer things I can say is this doesn’t sound like it was made in a 3 week window with a random sample request from a year ago. The bass is lush, the steel drum is a great touch, even down to the lighter percussion you have in the background. This is in the small handful of songs that’s just good.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Producer challenges were met but just turning fizzgig piss into a scratch was a little easy. I don’t think I have to say much about the multis on this track but the POV was clear.

BONUS: Gotta take a half point for being almost a half minute over the time limit

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Late night, this bass bumping, smooth flows. I still would need to hear this kept up but it’s a great start.

Total Score: 9

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Kabuto's multis are fun and delivered smoothly.
Nothing here sounds forced.

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Solid beat.
Layers add and drop where it feels natural to do so.
I like how the source material is woven into the instrumental. Turn down Kabuto's backing vocals down a touch.
(2:54) I like the glitch effects for Kabuto's vocals here.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
The team met the challenge requirements, but they ran over time maximum.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
[Review Text]

Total Score: 8

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

I watch this show. I know this theme. Approved. Beat could use a bit more low end to fill it out but the little vocal drops really pull it together. Vocals are strong, raps on point. Is this the first time this team has worked together. Let's hope they stick around.
Total Score: 7

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.75/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Not much to say, this is a classic Beefy delivery that we are all fans of. Awesome job and keep it up!

PRODUCTION (3): 2.25/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
This is a fun and enjoyable instrumental. I like the vocal effects you added towards the end

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details met

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 8

Navi

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

I have very few notes for this entry. The writing is smart, the presence is solid, and the concept is well thought out and smart. The hook is super on brand, and this is a joy to listen to.

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Love this composition and the thought that went into making the concept all encompassing. Drops are used really well in this song, and there’s a solid mixing balance (although the hook vocals are sliiiightly buried, but not enough to detract.)

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Very clear vocal / source samples that fit the concept. The POV is cohesive and the multis are amazing. GG.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). WHOOOOOWIEEEE, this song legit almost got this point for me, but there’s a song that I felt deserved it slightly more (it was a game of inches). Keep doing what ya’ll are doing, and I can’t wait to hear what ya’ll come up with next. I know I’ll enjoy it. Loved this entry <3

Favorite lyric: Even when I'm in a laser dog bark fart rut

TOTAL SCORE: 9

RJ

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Super fun, super up beat, super unexpected. The lyrics really embody Gene and fit his character. The performance has the right bright energy for what it’s trying to do.

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
I know there’s nothing to be done about this because it’s the opening theme that was used but, I got Spongebob vibes before I got Bob’s Burgers. Other than that this song is just a fun bop.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
The producer challenge was met well with the source sampling. I think the “Gene.” was a nice drop in the songs. On the other hand this is a case of scratching the vocalist sample at the end of the song to fit it in. Both of the Vocalist challenges were completed very well. I didn’t think I’d be humming a fart song today but here I am.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

I gotta say this one is close but not quite. My main thought on it is it sounds like a one off song a band would play and not a full set. On the other hand if it was the full set I’d probably pass on it. But hey, even The Darkness made a career off “I believe in a thing called love”.

Total Score: 8.5

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 0/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Confident and lighthearted delivery. Very much on brand with who Gene is.
(2:14): I like this cadence run here. A nice change up and also a great way to end the song.
PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Turn down the sample a touch when Beefy's vocals come in.
(2:14): I like the build up along with Beefy's cadence run - I would start even quiet (quieter? fuck it) as he goes so the "Gene."
Sample gets more punch to it. I'd add one more layer to those drums to balance out that beat. This is a little high end heavy

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Both vocalist and producer met the challenge.
Beefy’s POV as Gene is still very much in his style while staying true to the character.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
I think I'll DoorDash a cheeseburger or whatever.

Total Score: 9

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
[Review Text]

Track started with a low score due to the odd intro but this beat just kept growing and that number kept boosting. Vocals ride so smooth while everything continues to grow. Great effects on vocals within the verses and punchline hits. This team could be a problem if the keep up this quality. Im for it.

Total Score: 8

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.25/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I don’t have much feedback here except for I wish you would have changed the delivery to compliment the epicness of the instrumental. It sounded pretty chill and the FF tracks are pretty epic.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.75/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
CRISPY VOCALS - So clear I love it
Anything FF I’m a fan of but I love how you recomposed pieces into it (if not all of what you’re using?) If you didn’t you just sampled it SUPER well. Appreciated the sound effects that you added in to bolster the references in the lyrics too
The mixing of all of the elements together could use a little polishing but I enjoyed it and look forward to hearing your next rounds

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details met

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 8

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

There’s some decent writing here at times, but my biggest issue with the vocals is that the performance feels super flat and rigid. The POV is there, but a lot of the rhyme writing is generic and textblock. Ultimately it comes off as a bit bland, despite dealing with some pretty exciting topics.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

This mix is unfocused and lacks polish. Some sounds are way louder than others, especially the SFX, and there’s almost no dynamic range / pacing to the composition. I enjoy some of the sample flipping, but the drums are pretty flat and boring, so nothing really feels cohesive.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Pretty clear (over)use of samples, but the vocalist sample feels tacked on. There’s a clear POV and (relatively vanilla) multis.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). Imo ya’ll should continue to work at your cohesion as a team and find ways to bring that personality to the music in engaging ways. This song lacks the polish and chemistry that it could potentially have had with some tighter decisions and focus. Keep at it! <3

Favorite lyric: I ain't playin by sayin' my teeth leave blood and guts sprayin'

TOTAL SCORE: 6

RJ

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

The delivery on this is sharp, especially in the sections following along with the strings and horns. I like the story here and it does a lot for a two minute freestyle. I feel like the only downside is the limited potential of having to adhere so much to the melody.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Vocal mix sounds great, I would have turned the bass and drums up a bit. The horns and strings really shine.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Production source sample usage was completed well just dropping them all over the song but they felt like they fit. The only thing that sounded like a vocal sample was at the end in the “grind in final fantasy”. Vocalist challenges were both met.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Really solid song but I can’t quite call this one a banger

Total Score: 7.5

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Bars are good, but the delivery is not selling this song. Consider going over the top with your delivery when recording at first - it's a lot easier to scale back the energy in how you perform something vs. building up energy from the ground up.
Switch up your cadence sooner - you're going too long on one flow and run the risk sounding too samey.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
This song needs a lot of low end to balance out those strings and horns in the beat. I DO love the drama the latter brings tho.
(0:13): The choice of the stutters for NoShoes in the beginning of the measures are great.
(1:01 - "I got no PATIENCE"): Watch the "p" sounds tho and either request NoShoes to rerecord with a pop filter (or different filter) or polish up that pop reduction post-recording.
I appreciate how the source samples are used - they're sprinkled in and don't detract from the overall experience of this song.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Night City Glitches fulfilled the challenge requirements.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 6

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3):2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

the head nod is always a good sign. I wish the mix was a bit stronger for the beat. Vocals are sitting well and the hook as a great vibe. I can't wait to see what this team drops next.
Total Score: 6

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I enjoyed your delivery and actually enjoyed the fact that you stuck to your rhythm and went back to it at 1:20
Good execution of your multis keep it clean and good so no docking for that

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Try to bring the vocals to the front a little more
Would like to see you CONTINUE TO experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me).

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details were met

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 7

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

I’ll preface by saying I think this is a fun entry and I enjoyed it! That said, there’s some pretty forced lines and rigid schemes, and the vocals lose confidence whenever something new is tried. Some phrases get swallowed too. There is a solid handful of presence and attitude, but there’s also a lot of flat, blase delivery as well.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.25/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

I enjoyed the composition and dynamics in the instrumental, but I wish the vocals were engineered more. They stand out as pretty flat compared to everything else. That shuffling percussion loop felt a bit out of place at times too. There’s a lot of fun stuff happening in this tune though!

CHALLENGE (3): 2.75/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Clear POV. Love the beatbox. Clear use of source samples, but the multis are a bit simplistic so minor point docking for that.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). I encourage ya’ll to keep exploring the weirder and more dynamic side of your song writing. The better moments in this song are moments where ya’ll make strong creative choices, and I fully support ya’ll developing those ideas out with detailing and confidence. <3

Favorite lyric: My cabbage rolls like babish

TOTAL SCORE: 7

RJ

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Another silly topic that was executed very well lyrically. The delivery of this is solid but also occasionally sounds like you’re in a house where you can’t be loud recording. But it’s covid so I don’t think I’m gonna knock you for that.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
The first time the sample comes in at :26 seconds it’s a little jarring. Vocals sound like they’re where they belong. The beat’s got a nice variety to it, like a well stocked cart.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
All challenges appear to be complete. This is one of the times I can actually make out the vocal sample being used as production so good job on that.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
[Review Text]

I think this song needs a little more mastering but it’s almost there

Total Score: 8.5

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Solid bars and multis.
That hook goes and is very catchy. Get more layers on “Welcome to Cabbage Nation.”
(0:17 - "I got leafy greens and I'm comin for your corns") - swag that out more, you have more time than you think! There's a couple of other lines later in the track that this note applies too.
"MY CABBAGES" - get more layers.
(1:51): tighten the delivery of these two bars, you fumble these a little.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Great use of the source sample, this track needs more bass to really make it go.
Turn down the flute a touch.
(0:52): Turn down the wind instruments here so those vocals can get some shine.
Don't be afraid to do more drops within the verse.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Obvious Corruption met the challenge. Even with some fine tuning needed, they knocked it out of the park.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
Thanks for reminding me to make a batch of kimchi.
I will be VERY upset if Cabbage Nation merchandise is not made. I want a Cabbage Nation fanny pack pleasethankyouandyesterday.

Total Score: 8

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 1/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 1/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Was this beat being played live with the vocalist? This track is played with mixing issues. THe vocals need more compression and less reverb. THe beat needs to be pushed up so you can feel the bass. Be careful with fast vocals, if you can't get them out, re-write.
Total Score: 4

CMF

VOCALS (3): 1.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Your delivery was not bad, you had some multis across the bars I think the mixing took away from your delivery. Your rhythm is good too, just need to bring your rapping energy! It sounded like you were reading a story at some points versus rapping a song. There were a couple of times where the rhyme scheme randomly ended and it was slightly abrupt

PRODUCTION (3): 1/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
The vocal mix needs some compression and raising on some of the higher frequencies of the vocalist
The instrumental was cool just needs more depth to the overall mix

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 4.5

Navi

VOCALS (3): 1.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

I do enjoy the weirdness and energy of these vocals at times, however I have a lot of thoughts. Firstly, this sounds like it was recorded while making sure not to wake someone else up, which sucks out a lot of the natural energy and charisma of a more confident take. Words get swallowed, muddled, and lost in breath. Plus there’s a lot of issues w/ the vocalist locking into the rhythm at times where it matters.

PRODUCTION (3): 1.75/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

This mix is very flat. The vocalist sounds like they’re in a bathroom, and reverb is applied very generically to their voice. There’s some interesting instrumental choices, but the song is pretty predictable on that front too. In general, this sounds like a pre-mix/master demo, not a finished song. ALSO, that glass knocking sound in the right ear during the “Artoria” line is driving me up the wall, cuz i keep thinking someone is knocking on my wall.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

It’s a POV, i guess? Multis, I guess? Meh on the vocal sample, and I asssssume that source samples are being used here. Giving ya’ll the benefit of the doubt.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). I think the best note for ya’ll to take from this is to block off more time at the end of the round to really get your mixes to a more polished state, and put some more intention into your performances. I think it’ll work in your favor, cuz a lot of the raw material for a good song is here, just … not refined. Go forth and make more <3

Favorite lyric: the good ol’ mighty dollar

TOTAL SCORE: 5.25

RJ

VOCALS (3): 1/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
This flow is trying a lot of things but the further into the song the more the character performance comes out and the more the delivery suffers. The vocals sound really far away from the microphone. I can’t make heads or tails of what these lyrics are trying to tell me. It also feels like this was done in one take and could have used a few more.

PRODUCTION (3): 1/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
I’m going to call this the “Anti Dial” problem where somehow everything sounds quiet. This beat also feels like it’s kinda just cruising down the road using whatever it passes without much direction.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Vocalist and Producer challenges appear complete. That being said I can’t tell which vocals (the bassy ones vs the ones at the end of the track) are which sample.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

This needs a lot of work.

Total Score: 4

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 1/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Watch your diction thruout the entired track - your lyrics are getting lost, especially when you start speeding up.
There's some great potential for how you're delivering your bars in (0:52 - "To rectify..."), but you must sound comfortable with your lyrics for this to shine thru
Right now, the vocals sound like this is the first read on the first take.
Vocals sound like they were recorded in a space where there isn't a lot of insulation. Assess where your mic is and also how far you are away from it so you can give Voltaire the best possible takes.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Vary up your instrumentation - don't be afraid to add drops.
Vocals did not sound mixed in.
Consider more layers to your drums and bass - there's a lot of mid and high end going on not a lot of foundation underneath it.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Optimistic Nihilists met the challenge requirements.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 5

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
[Review Text]

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
[Review Text]

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
[Review Text]

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
[Review Text]

Sounds like some apathy shit. (not wu-tang) but that's not a bad thing. I like the energy on this track. Pick better drum sounds for the next round and you all will be pushing the top score.
Total Score: 7

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Good energy, good multis and like the switch ups. Not much feedback here keep up the good work

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Vocal mix is solid but would like to hear a little more crispness of the different elements including the vocalist
Like the instrumental, drums kind of sound like container drums which added a cool kind of effect to the song - not sure if you planned that out but if so kudos haha
Would like to see you experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me)

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details met!

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 7.5

Navi

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

This is some pretty boilerplate brag rap but it works well for the POV and character. Solid performance and writing. Love the presence and showcase of skill and versatility. Full marks.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

The song could pop a bit more in the mastering of it, but I like the mix / instrumentation a lot. Vocals feel a bit unfinished tho. Would have liked some thicker presence in the low end, and some bass w/ personality, but what exists doesn’t detract from the song. The change ups are cool af, and I will always celebrate a tempo shift. Kudos for that!

CHALLENGE (3): 2.75/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Everything is hit pretty well, but I feel like that vocal sample - while cool - is pretty buried as opposed to being showcased.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). Damn, this is a dangerous team. I suggest focusing on your workflow collaborating on post-processing mix/master notes and getting the songs one step more polished than they are right now. I can’t wait to hear what comes next from ya’ll. <3

Favorite lyric: BUT THAT HEART DISEASE FROM SPACE HAD HIM FUCKED UP

TOTAL SCORE: 8.25

RJ

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

You say Wu Tang, I say Denzel Curry. The switch up on the flow is an excellent change of pace. Here’s another one where I feel like more could have been done with the time given.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Vocals sound great on this and when you get as animated as Joey Z that makes it tough sometimes but you nailed that. The beat feels tailored to fit everything the vocalist is doing. I feel like more could have been done with vocal samples from the source material.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Vocalist and Producer challenges completed.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

I feel like this is a great start but I need to hear more

Total Score: 8

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
This delivery has LIFE and confidence. Someone ready to fight.
(0:58 - "But you wasn't even blockin"): This section needed to be rehearsed and practiced a lot more. You were close in nailing that bar and when you get that down pat, the rest of this section is gonna be even more impactful.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
These drums need more layers, they're very bare bones right now.
(0:33): The instrumentation needs to match Joey Z's intensity, there's not a lot I hear in this section that reflects that beat-wise.
I like that switch up on (0:58).

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge requirements were met.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 6

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
[Review Text]

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
[Review Text]

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
[Review Text]

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
[Review Text]

I think this track needs a second rapper... Beat needs to be a boosted a bit to fill out the track a bit. Also is this rapper recording at 1am trying to not wake the family? I have questions.
Total Score: 6

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Solid delivery, good ole Steve Perry energy except for when you get into the latter verse - keep whatever original energy you had it the first. It started going monotone almost like you were less confident with the verse
Nice job on your multis, just make sure you keep your energy with them versus focusing on getting them out

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Good mix on the vocals in the first verse, like the extra effects you’ve added on the secondary vocals. Did get a little lost in the mix around 1:30 for about 30 seconds
Would like to see you CONTINUE TO experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me)

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details met

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 7

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Awww, this is super wholesome. I really enjoy the general vibe of performance, but i do feel that when you switch to multis, there’s a clear shift to a more mechanical rote performance that feels real rigid. The writing is fun, and I love the chorus! The adlibs are a bit low energy.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.25/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

These drums are a v thin and underwhelming, and the vocal balance is a bit wonky. I love the intro, and the general composition is a lot of fun. Lot of v cool retro choices with instrumentation. This song suffers in the engineering, not the design.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.75/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

POVs and multis for sure. The vocal sample is a bit understated but cool. The sample feels a bit like an afterthought, but kewl.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). This is a fun song and i love the energy ya’ll are bringing, but it lacks a polish that would really push it to the next tier for me. Keep at it! <3

Favorite lyric:

TOTAL SCORE: 7.5

RJ

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
The flow is there but I feel like it could use a little more energy. The chorus sounds good with the back and forth. The lyrics really cover this character's arch in a great way.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Love the keys on this track. I feel like the lightness of the beat doesn’t 100% mesh with the character but would work into the show itself well. I do feel like everything could be turned up a little more around the vocals.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
All challenges met and this is a great way to get around me bitching about bookending with samples.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

It’s close with this one but with some tightening up it could be great.

Total Score: 8

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Work on your breath control and write with breaths in mind - you are out of gas by the second bar.
Multis are strong, but now you're running into cadence that is very samey. Find ways to continue delivering those multis thru lyrical variation.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
The drum pattern is great - now it needs more bass.
Match those backing vocals a touch tighter.
The mixdown needs more attention with this song.
Volumes on the vocals sound very soft.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
The challenges were met.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 6

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Another track that has potential but is missing that push to set it apart. Sadly this lands in the middle of the field for me. Play around a bit more with your range of delivery so it doesn't feel as much monotoned.
Total Score: 6

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
This is very Vanilla Ice (not a bad thing), try to play around with taking a quarter / eighth note rest before starting parts of your lines so you don’t have to do awkward elongation of some of your words
Nice job on your multis and your hook was super fun

PRODUCTION (3): 1.75/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
I like this instrumental, it definitely has that 90s Ninja Turtle game feel but got repetitive towards the end. Also try to avoid fadeouts
The vocal treatment needs more focused treatment, they got lost in the instrumental elements (kicks and sample)
Would like to see you experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me)

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details met

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 6.75

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Love this hook. It slaps and I know I’d vibe w/ it live. That said, there’s some flat, forced delivery here, and some generic, unfocused writing. There’s decent performance energy, but it’s fairly monotone, and there’s some breath control issues as well. Enjoyed the writing and the POV is pretty sharp.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

This mix could use some clarity, but in general i enjoy the instrumentation. That bass is thicc. The composition is simple but fun and appropriate, and the vocals sit pretty decently in the mix. Everything lacks a bit of shine though, and this is the kind of song that should crackle with energy.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

POV is solid, multis are pretty solid, albeit a bit generic (bult i wont dock for it) Cool vocal sample usage, and i love how the source material is sampled thru the song.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). The energy and humor is there, but ya’ll could use a few more working passes on performance and fine tuning a finished song. A good mix is an extension of the energy a song radiates. Play with the tools you have to accent what you sequence! Good luck! <3

Favorite lyric: I give you ten tickles with my tentacles

TOTAL SCORE: 7.5

RJ

VOCALS (3): 1.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Flow’s fine but not making waves. Some of these lyrics are a stretch.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
It feels like this track can’t decide if it wants to be bouncy or a banger. Overall the mix is fine.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
While the source sample from the beginning of the song persists through the beat I can’t hear any vocalist samples. Vocalist challenges are complete but the multis could use work.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
As a connoisseur of ninja turtle songs and bands this one needs improvement

Total Score: 5.5

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 1/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Multis seem forced and predictable.
Michaelageflow's cadence bounces nicely with the beat, but be very careful with your delivery because some words blur together.
The ending needs work. I like what you’re doing with the callouts of the turtles, but the bars are very basic. (2:42 - “Leonardo…”): Your cadence should be consistent here.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Beat is overpowering Michaelageflow's vocals.
That distortion on the hook is not needed.
Sync the background vocals tighter.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
This team meets all of the challenge requirements.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 5

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
[Review Text]

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
[Review Text]

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
[Review Text]

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
[Review Text]

I have watched the first season. I am a fan. This song feels like it would be in the tv show and I think that's a fun challenge. I am not sure what else you could have done to make this song hit a bit harder but it's a little bit too comfortable. I am still a fan and will be watching you closely.
Total Score: 6

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I have never seen this show outside of commercials but this made me feel like I was watching it if that makes sense (since I haven’t seen it lol)

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
I’ve only seen commercials for this show but the beat definitely made me remember them so good job on bringing what I assume the feel of the show is to the song
I would like to hear the vocals to be a little more crisp but I like the effects you put on the backing vocals
Would like to see you experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me)

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details met

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 7.5

Navi

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

While there’s a little bit of a forced delivery at times, the energy really sells this performance for me . It’s really fun, and a clear case of being able to hear a smile in a recording. The POV is approached with a really smart pen, and the concept is given the weight to fill out the song.

PRODUCTION (3): 1.75/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

I really enjoy the Sims-esque instrumentation for this song! It fits the conceptual themes well, however the mix is super flat (drums / hook vox specifically) and in general, volume balance is all over the place. This hinders a lot of the charm of the song, and a couple of more mix drafts would have gone a long way. Also there’s very little going on in the low/sub end throughout the song, plus the bass in verse one is out of tune and only squeaks by because of how quiet it is.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

POV is super clear and achieved. Multis are solid. The samples are a bit overused but fun. I couldn’t really make out a vocal sample, and if it’s there, it could have come out way more.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). I love the vibe ya’ll are bringing to the compo, and my big note would be to really take time to allow mixes to go thru drafts and tweaks. Seek feedback from ears you trust to guide your own mixing decisions, and work with reference songs that help you find engineering ideas that glue the track together. That’ll really help get these songs to the next level. Good luck! <3

Favorite lyric: please excuse me, I'm being murdered.

TOTAL SCORE: 7.25

RJ

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I feel like there’s only so much “performing” you can do when you pick a very neutral character. This kinda runs along with my “I’m so bored” commentary. Other than that I feel the flow fits and the lyrics are spot on to the character.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Great consistent usage of samples throughout the entire song. Mix feels nice and airy. Unfortunately I feel like it lacks any mental stickiness because of this.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
The source samples are all over this song but I’m not hearing any vocalist samples. Similarly the POV is nailed but the multis aren’t standing out.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
I think this is the best realization of the POV challenge but I can’t say I’m going to stick to this song super hard.

Total Score: 6

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I would go even FURTHER with the Janet-ness of your delivery.
"In The Good Place, we're never wrong." - Stick the landing on that delivery.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
(0:09 - "Welcome, welcome"): Sync the vocals tighter here.
I like the effect behind Hackinslash's vox on the 2nd verse.
Those build ups from verse to hook need more to them.
Mixing needs more work - vocals and beat still sound separate from each other.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge was met.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 7

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

The softest guitar in the round with the biggest bass. This is a head nod and has so much emotion behind it. Vocals play well with the beat, when the beat changes up half way I am happy to see the raps follow. I would have liked to see a little more vocal tricks to flex on everyone but overall a banger.
Total Score: 7

CMF

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
You know I have high expectations of you so thank you for delivering, no feedback here just keep doing your thing

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Nice job on the vocal mix & that bass was niceeeeeee the only thing is it overpowered Lex a little at points
Would like to see you CONTINUE TO experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me)

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details met!

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 8.5

Navi

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Great presence, and a solid showcase of versatility. I love the extended landing on rhyme schemes too. This is a really enjoyable vocal take, plus I think the POV writing is really clear.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.75/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Thick instrumental, but the sub-bass could use some taming in the mastering to keep from pushing the mix into crusher territory. The vocals are getting a bit overwhelmed by the instrumentation and the mix, but Lex’s timbre cuts thru pretty well regardless. The Low mids in general are crowded at the more chaotic moments. I do love this instrumentation and it slaps.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Extremely solid takes on all the challenges imo. No notes.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). This is a strong effort from a strong team. Came pretty close to the top tier for me, but not quite my favorite song of the round. Keep doing what you’re doing though, cuz I think this is a good sign of things to come. <3

Favorite lyric: won’t see me cry when it’s raining

Total Score: 8.75

RJ

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
There’s a venom to this delivery. “so what is a life worth when stealing is light work” might be my favorite single bar from this round. The flow change with the second verse is ear catching.

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

If there was a BIGGEST production challenge this would take the round. And then that second verse makes me want to push bodies around.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Producer vocalist sample is in there but I have no sense of the source sample. Vocalist challenges complete.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Yeah I mean that second verse would send bodies through walls.

Total Score: 9.5

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
(0:29 - "You seen that they're weak") - Having a background vocal that either repeats the last word would add to that discord the character is having with the others in the song.
That whisper/build up section is great.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Great reverb and guitar on the instro.
While I appreciate the drums in this song, your beat overpowers Lingo's vocals.
Be mindful of that mixdown.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
The team met the challenge requirements.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 8

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

This sample flip has a vibe that really saves this track. The drums need a bit of work, they are not as loud as they could be yet they are speaking so something is fighting this team in the mix. Vocals ride well but nothing stands out enough. Let's see what next round brings.
Total Score: 6

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Nice flow and slotting into the beat. Multis were good too - One of my favorite characters from the series!
Bring the same energy you brought in the hook to the rest of the song - I think that would have made the delivery sound super dope

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Good choice on the sample lol I hear a little bit of distortion though not sure if it was on the file export
Vocal mix wasn’t bad but I think maybe too much reverb on the main track
Would like to see you experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me)

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details met! Docked 0.5 point because I didn’t hear a vocal sample

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 6.5

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

There’s some fun writing here, but I’m a bit underwhelmed by the charisma, especially considering the character POV. A handful of awkward bars and cliche lines, and it gets a little unfocused and mashed up at faster flow points. The verse starts pretty hot though, and I dig the energy on the (non-sung) hook. The sung hook falls flat for me.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.25/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

The vocals feel super dry and unprocessed, and it really hurts the sung hook. It’s a dope sample flip though, and there’s a lot of fun things going on in the beat. The kick is super prioritized in the mix (to its detriment) and this causes some clipping. Also, the rest of the drums are very understated in the mix and could have popped a lot more. It feels like the mix/master process was fairly rushed here.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Missing the presence of the vocal sample, but the POV / multis / source material is solid.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). I’d suggest spending more time in the mix draft phase, working through some of the detailing a song like this needs to truly shine. Keep at it! <3

Favorite lyric: put a pain in your torso

Total Score: 6.75

RJ

VOCALS (3): 1.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I can’t tell if the verses want to be on beat or off beat. Which is weird because the chorus knows exactly what it’s doing. The lyrics are fine but not inspiring.

PRODUCTION (3): 1.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Don’t get me wrong I love horns. I think this is a bit much. Vocal mix seems on.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Vocalist challenge complete. I can hear some source sample yelling but I can’t pick out a vocalist sample.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

There’s like, a pretty decent chorus in there but so much more of it feels jumbled.

Total Score: 5.5

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 1/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
You sound far from your mic.
Lyrics are great, but delivery needs a lot of work.
Perform those lyrics, don't just recite them.
Your flow shows promise - tighten your cadence or rework some of those lines to make them fit (ie. 1:39 - "I'm aming to trade blows with the greatest swordsmen") .
Awesome hook - needs more vocal layers to make that stand out

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
I like the drums and how vox are sitting.
Turn that brass down a touch.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
The team met all of the requirements.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 6

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

When does the raps start?

Total Score: 7

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
First person to do this much singing on a track and it was super fun, not much else to provide for feedback keep up the good work I liked the hook a lot

PRODUCTION (3): 2.75/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Fun instrumental, maybe more vocals on the hook? All in all pretty solid
Would like to see you CONTINUE TO experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me)

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details met!

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 8.25

Navi

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Love love love this performance. The writing is super smart, and it’s utterly engaging. No notes.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.75/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Here’s where i’ll nitpick a touch. <3 I love the instrumentation and the mix in general BUT it feels a bit too chonky in the mid-range. Specifically, the guitars in the verse. I’m hearing some clippy crunchy stuff there that doesn’t sound intentional? There’s a bit of overbearing thickness thru the master that’s squashing it during the dynamic peaks, and the song suffers as a result. I wish there was more in the way of a shaped dynamic arc of the song so that the chorus hits as hard as should.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Source sample feels a bit tacked on, but that’s ok cuz ultimately the challenges are nailed in a unique style and yay!

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). This was in my top three but the mastering kept me from putting it up higher. This song needed a few more passes on the master phase, but it was really fucking close. Love the energy and the vibe. Can’t wait to hear more. <3

Favorite lyric: Can’t you see my contrail

Total Score: 8.75

RJ

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Really enjoy the delivery throughout this whole song.

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Love the synth key lines and the vocal shouts. The whole song smacks of a college radio song. Track doesn’t overpower the vocals

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
My only knock on this appears to be the source samples not being used more during the song. All other challenges were met.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

With the weather warming up this is dropping at the perfect time

Total Score: 9.5

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
MC117 has a great voice and the way he delivers his lyrics fit the song.
Careful not to push up, but sing over on those higher notes.
The wordplay is awesome

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
I'd turn 117's vocals up a touch during the chorus.
Great progression and movement thruout the song.
There are parts of the song all of the elements come into conflict and clash with 117's vocals (ie. 0:55).
The cassette click at the end is a great touch.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
This group fulfilled all of the challenge requirements. Creating that indy band ambiance was a great choice for this team as a whole and for this track.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
Extra Sauce: This song is so fucking Seattle.

Total Score: 9

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

This has a ton of potential. The beat is very lofi vibes. This can be a problem if anyone else in the comp brings high energy. Raps are dope but get a bit off when the beat switches at the end. I think this might be another curveball from the producer that throws off the rapper. Make sure you communicate while creating and make changes to boost each other up... ohh and pick bigger drums.
Total Score: 6

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Lol Alfred, the most under celebrated character. The raps definitely sound like the way he looked in the Batman cartoon which is what I’m assuming you were going for
Nice job adding some singing to the hook - maybe add some layers to it (CC Ohm-I songs)

PRODUCTION (3): 1.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
The beat is very barebones which I think drove some of the direction of the vocalist - I think it would have benefited to add a small 4-8 bar section that had either much more or a complete switch up just to keep attention.
Vocal mix decent - maybe try to do some pitch correction on the vocalist in the hook and double up
Would like to see you experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me)

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details met!

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 6.5

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2.25/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

I like the singing! The vocal performance isn’t bombastic enough to ride this kind of minimalism. There’s some clunker lines, but i actually do like the nonchalant delivery. The writing is decently fun, and again ~ I love that you're demonstrating your versatility in this. POV was treated pretty well!

PRODUCTION (3): 1.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

This is an interesting approach, and at first I was kinda excited by the minimalism, however it never develops or evolves into anything exciting, and the beat doesn’t really mesh with the vocalist’s style of delivery. The instruments are cool, but everything is so barebones. The drums in particular are super lacking, and that tambo is way too loud.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

POV and multis are handled well, but I can’t really tell if any source material was sampled, and the Alfred vocal sample is interesting, but isn’t deployed in an exciting or creative way.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). Imo the advice i can give you is to put more meat and potatoes in your beatmaking, and make sure that it complements the vocals. Stay weird tho. <3

Favorite lyric: Punchline (duh)

Total Score: 6.25

RJ

VOCALS (3): 1.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I feel like the flow needed another pass or two. The singing was a nice touch. The overall delivery of this song feels really plodding.

PRODUCTION (3): 1/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Beat is kinda minimalistic and doesn’t really evolve or go anywhere interesting. It’s almost like the beat is shy to be part of the song.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Vocalist challenges were met. The “Alfred” sample was used consistently thru the song but I couldn’t find any source samples.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

I think this is a building block

Total Score: 5

Shubz

VOCALS (2): 0/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Delivery falls flat throughout the song - get more comfortable and familiar wtih your lyrics as right now, this sounds like you're reading them from text.
(0:56 - "Rise and Fall"): Needs more layers and harmonies.
Be mindful of the beat especially when you have to pivot to continue to ride the instrumentation post switch up.

PRODUCTION (3): 1/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
The beat needs more layering to it.
This is a great start and more attention to continuing to build upon what you have is a must.
Vocals sound like they are completely separate from the beat - spend more time with the mixdown to create a more cohesive track.
(1:49: This needs a better transition, whether it be build up, a sound clip. The slight pause is clumsy and doesn't connect with the rest of the song.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge requirements were met.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 5

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 1/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Is this the Party Fun Action Committee? I like this but I feel like I should not like it... It's goofy and I like goofy sometimes. Keep it up, yal'l!
Total Score: 6

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
This has a very “took myself to the hat store and got myself a hat” feel which was fun but also a very fine line to walk lol. Some slurred words so maybe try to do punch ins to avoid having to redo a bunch of the lines if you slip up.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Nice job with the vocal samples
You have the opposite of what I’ve been telling a lot of producers and that’s bring the vocals down a little, the mix was overall good but they stood out a lot more than the other elements of the song. I think it’s easier to go the direction you need to go than bring them more forward.
Would like to see you experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me) You kind of did this around 2:00 which I enjoyed but the high hat pattern stayed exactly the same.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details met!

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 7

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2.75/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

This is amazing commitment. Some lines get slurred together or swallowed in ways that sacrifice clarity, and other lines feel a bit forced, BUT I can’t get too nitpicky on this one. It’s really fantastic and the energy / charisma is palpable. The ending is inspired.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

The vocals float on top of the mix a bit too much, and the instrumentation is a bit simplistic, however this holds up really well because of the overarching package. IMO it needs a few more passes in the mix department to really make it next level. The ending is beautiful enough for me to forgive some issues i have with instrumentation and composition lol.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Source samples are a bit light, but I don’t really care cause this hits all the other challenges really exquisitely.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). I love this and if it was a bit more polished it would have gotten an extra push from me. Keep at it, and spend a bit more time mixing/mastering to give it that sweet sweet shine.

Favorite lyric: Dear mister horses aren't allowed inside the mines

Total Score: 8.25

RJ

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
The delivery doesn’t do anything exciting until the end but then it crushes it. The energy is absolutely there on this one. This is the best LotR track I’ve heard since the Lords of the Rhymes.

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
I can’t not hear TI’s “what you know about that” when I hear the bass line. The Stan parody at the end had me almost fall out of my chair the first time I heard it. I think this is a good example of a beat not over doing it.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
All challenges met.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Someone’s going to hate this but this is exactly the dumb stuff that’s just fun to have sometimes

Total Score: 10

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
The energy and delivery to this is so extra. I'm here for it.
Mike Bananas is committing to these lyrics - be mindful of diction tho. There are places where lyrics slur.
Stan cover sounds flat, but honestly I'm not mad at it.
The background vocals are over the top and Mike leans into those ridiculous equine puns.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
This track calls for louder and larger drums to fill the song.
There isn't much movement other than the main part of the song to the Stan cover.
Consider adding drops, getting that piano introduced to the beat sooner, and perhaps another element (strings are what comes to mind for me, but y'all do y'all).

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
The challenge was met by both vocalist and producer.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 7

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 1/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 1/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 1/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

This song sounds like when you have two browsers tabs playing music at the same time and you can't figure out what tab it is so you just close the entire browser to deal with the issue. Mix is good.
Total Score: 3

CMF

VOCALS (3): 1/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Honest feedback, you can’t sing a major song in a minor sample.

PRODUCTION (3): 0.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
I got so excited when I heard the first portion of the song so good job on pulling me in! Unfortunately when the song started I started looking at my computer trying to figure out what other file I started playing. The keys of the lead you’re using are in a minor key and the singing is in a major key. It’s a really strong clash and made my brain go haywire
The vocalist was clear so good job on the mixing and treatment
Would like to see you experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me)

CHALLENGE (3): 1/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
I don’t know what the sample material was. I honestly was having a little trouble focusing on everything with the clashes

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.
Total Score: 2.5

Navi

VOCALS (3): .25/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Now, this here song, I only mention it because sometimes there's a team... I won't say heroes, 'cause, what's a hero? But sometimes, there's a team. And I'm talkin' about the Crown Joels here. Sometimes, there's a team, well, they’re the team for their time and place. They fit right in there. And that's the Crown Joels, in this playlist. And even if they’re a lazy team - and the Crown Joels are most certainly that. Quite possibly the laziest in the VPC, which would place them high in the runnin' for laziest worldwide. But sometimes there's a team, sometimes, there's a team. Aw. I lost my train of thought here. But... aw, hell. I've done introduced them enough.

PRODUCTION (3): .25/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Teams! I have just received new orders. Czarina says the VPC is cancelled, and we can all go home. The Crown Joels are getting paid off for their crimes, and our friends will have made songs here... will have made songs here for nothing. But... we can all go home. Meanwhile, ideas like vocals, production and challenges - they get packed up. But... we can all go home. Well... I'm not going home. I'm gonna get on my boat, and I'm going up-river, and I'm going to kick those son-of-a-bitch Crown Joels asses so HARD... that the next Crown Joels wanna-be is gonna feel it. Now who wants to go home... and who wants to go with me?

CHALLENGE (3): .25/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

For over a thousand years, VPC winners returning from the compo enjoyed the honor of a triumph - a tumultuous parade. In the procession came trumpeters and musicians and strange animals from the conquered territories, together with carts laden with treasure and captured armaments. The winners rode in a triumphal chariot, the dazed runners up walking in chains before him. Sometimes their children, robed in white, stood with them in the chariot, or rode the trace horses. Crown Joels stood behind the conqueror, holding a golden crown, and whispering in their ear a warning: that all glory is fleeting.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): .25/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Navi here. I know I said I would only give one team points in this category but i’m dropping a quarter in the bucket for this song because tbh I think it’s a fairly immaculate troll song designed for maximum pain, and by god I do appreciate that. GG. <3

Total Score: 1

RJ

VOCALS (3): 0/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
yeah

PRODUCTION (3): 0/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Not doing this one

CHALLENGE (3): 0/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Move along

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
please

Total Score: 0

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 0/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 0/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 0/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
Shoulda used Uptown Girl.

Total Score: 1

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Souls of Mischief and Smif N Wessun vibes all over this. I love the throwback vibe and name drops. This beat hits and the vocals ride well. I hope you continue to bring this level on the next round.
Total Score: 7

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.25/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I enjoyed this take, good job on the multis - The delivery also had a very MF Doom feel so you had me nodding my head
Nice Richie Branson Hentai Lamborghini reference lol
All in all a fun and enjoyable rap

PRODUCTION (3): 2.25/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
This has very MF Doom (RIP) vibes in the beginning. I really like that lead you added in I don’t even know why but all you need to know is I liked it lol
Vocal treatment I enjoyed, maybe bring the ad libs down a little and balance the levels between the speaking parts and “the heroes did” part
Would like to see you CONTINUE TO experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me). You did quite a bit with some change ups and then rode the beat out so I appreciate that and keep doing things like that.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details met!

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 7.5

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2.25/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

This is a really fun perspective, but I wish it had relied less on referential metaness and more on the POV. There’s some forced rhymes and cliche choices, but in general it’s a decent vocal cut. I wish there was a bit less of a reliance on adlibs as well. The hook is fun!

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

This beat is cool but pretty boilerplate, imo. The instrument choices are solid for the style but predictable. Vocals could have been focused and mixed better (adlibs included). It’s a solid lo-fi groove though, and I love that squealy synth.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.75/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

POV is cool in theory, but ends up more meta than POV. Samples are cool but i wish the vocal sample was featured as a more prominent part of the beat. It feels more like a recurring adlib / hook than a piece of the pie. Multis are solid.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). I think ya’ll just need to build up your confidence and bring some more energy and fine-tuning to the process. Plus, commit to the challenges more and I’ll def reward that work. Keep at it! <3

Favorite lyric: No car no job Le miserabe

Total Score: 7.5

RJ

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Like the confident delivery on this one. Kind of a basic flow but it’s executed cleanly. I dig the hook.

PRODUCTION (3): 1.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Really like the light keys, really don’t like that high pitched whining noise.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
The POV is a little broad but it meets requirements and all other challenges are complete.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Solid start, excited to hear more.

Total Score: 7

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Flow is smooth and floats through with ease.
I like the switch ups.
Love the premise and bless you for shouting me out. Destroying buildings is what monsters do! <3
“Richie Branson escapes in his hentai Lamborghini”: run thru this line a few more times. Those “s” sounds are disrupting your delivery.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
This is a really chill beat.
Sync Gizmo's background vocals tighter.
"The Heroes Did" can use more layers and in different tones so we can get a larger crowd of bystanders shouting that line.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
The Phoenix Force fulfilled the challenge of the round.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
This is going on the Sunday Brunch playlist. Also sorry about your car. I was having a bad day.

Total Score: 8

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 1/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

1 time for the.. I am not sure what is happening in this track. It sounds like the style is close but im not sure if it does it for me. Raps are strong but the beat seems to lose energy half way though and doesn't loop correctly. Make sure to iron out the kinks. Bring that energy next round.
Total Score: 5

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.75/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
You unfortunately had the like 4th DBZ rap I had to listen to, but you ended up executing in a really hilarious way so you redeemed a ton. There were a couple of times were you forced some words out
I don’t have anything else to really give you feedback on, keep this kind of energy matching of what you’re rapping about for the rest of the competition

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
While I appreciate I got to hear the vocals a lot, they sat way in front of the rest of the song - not sure if it’s from the compression
Instrumental sounded really cool, let me hear some more of the kicks and maybe do some more panning of the elements to give more dimension to the track - the 2 minute mark was a really good switch up
Would like to see you experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me)

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details met!

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 7.75

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2.75/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

There’s some great energy and flow here, although it loses focus towards the end. I love the voice and the raspy breath. The writing is solid and I think this all around a strong take. Sometimes clarity is lost in the drawl, so keep an eye on when words get buried in your flow.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.75/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Dope beat and composition. Wish there was a bit more hi end sparkle to really pop this mix, but it stands pretty solid, although I’m meh on that snare choice. The adlib / vox processing is a bit distracting, and I feel like there’s a bit too much verb on the sample, but that’s nitpicking. This is almost flawless imo.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.75/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

The vocal sample was cool when it was used, but it wasn’t used enough to be a feature of the song. Other than that, solid POV and multis, and a fun use of the “source” sample!

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). I’m really excited about this team, but the name of the game is polish. A few more engineering passes on this and it would really slap for me. Either way, keep at it! <3

Favorite lyric: Two times for the lackey boys With the beefcake deep jacked raspy voice

Total Score: 8.25

RJ

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I really dig the swagged out delivery on this. Super high energy. Really no notes this round.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
I dig this beat but I feel like it could have hit a bit harder after its builds.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Source sample lightly sprinkled across this track as well as the opening. I didn’t hear a vocal sample. Both vocalist challenges complete.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

From the moment the DBZ Abridged sample hit I knew this was going to be something to pay attention to

Total Score: 9

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I appreciate the commitment to Taco Supreme's delivery.
Lyrics are strong - make sure you make room for breaths in the your second verse. You sound like you're out of gas by (1:55).
Clever multis as well.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
This beat moves around and has a good bounce to it.
This needs more bass to fill this song. You have a lot of room to add those and another element during the hook to fully complete this song.
Good move lowering the volume (2:35) while Taco Supreme is talking at the end

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
The challenge requirements were met.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 6

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 1/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

So this is very well done. Music sound good, vocals sound great but I am not positive this it hits the all of the challenges. Great mix!
Total Score: 6

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Good thing I finally saw Hamilton a few months back. This made me feel like I was actually watching it again. Solid job on your delivery and bringing the multi challenge into a song. I know that had to be pretty difficult

PRODUCTION (3): 2.75/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Not much feedback to give here. Solid job with everything. Won’t be getting my feedback of adding elements independently and giving dynamic range to the entire song

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details met!

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 8.25

Navi

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

I love this. Very sincere and emotive. Really clean writing and adapting to singing “multis”. I have very little to say. This really hits for me.

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Clean mix, PZ. One of the best I’ve heard from ya. Everything sits really nicely together, and the instrumentation fits the tone / POV really well. This could have actually been in Hamilton.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.75/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Multis and POVs are flawless imo. Cool use of a vocalist sample as a pad, but it felt like it was tucked away rather than featured, so I do wish it could have been more prominent in the soundscape.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). This one came really close for me. Top five of the round. I’m really excited by this team, and all i can suggest is that ya’ll make sure to keep approaching each round with this energy and sincerity. It’s a good fit. <3

Favorite lyric: Through smoke and blood and sweat I saw you smile

Total Score: 8.75

RJ

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Another great singing song. It does seem to push some vocal limits at times but the vocals walk right up to the line and hold it.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Listening in headphones I honestly found the guitar strumming at different times in the left and right channels distracting. Other than that this is a really pretty song.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
I have a hard time determining what the source sample is here. All other challenges were met.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

While this lulls me into a sense of safety it doesn’t exactly excite me

Total Score: 8

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I like the somber and longing ambiance of this song.
There's some pops coming thru - be mindful of your mic position ("IMPATIENT tastes", "You kissed my LIPS").
Multis are subtle and not forced.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Mix the vocals into the instrumentation a little more. They don't sound connected.
The instrumentation can use more during the chorus - there's little differentiation between verse and chorus.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
The challenges requirements were met.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 7

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

I love where this is going. some of the best execution I have seen out of these two. Beat is nasty but could use a bit more grit on the drums. Vocals ride well and are audible (feels late 90's) mixed with a more advanced rapper. I wish there was a bit more play with vocal effects. Chop them up and make them bounce around a bit.
Total Score: 6

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Solid delivery, good job with the multis. Would say to try and give some breathing room to some of the bars outside of the verse

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
This beat was funky and I liked it, made me feel like I was at a techno club haha
Vocal mixing on the verses could be just a little more up front - I think it sounded like a good balance on the hook
Would like to see you experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me). Love where it went with hook adding the piano with the orchestra strings - thank you for not doing a random fade out of the entire song

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details met!

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 7.5

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2.75/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

Some really fun wordplay and flow here, but also some real cheesy lines. It’s ok though cuz there’s a lot of unique presence to this performance. In the faster sections some clarity gets sacrificed for speed. At first I didn’t really like the hook, but tbh it’s grown on me in a weird earwormy way, so i’m keeping this score fairly high.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

This cranks and has a lot of personality, however I wish there’d been more flesh to the supporting instrumentation, even in terms of just slight balance adjustment. The bass is super prominent and so much of the comping stuff is pretty sedate in the background. Verse vox also feel a bit flat in the mix. That said, it’s a lot of fun and very clean.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Yes, on all counts.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). A strong entry, but it could have gone thru a bit more work at the mix table. I’m excited to hear what ya’ll come up with next~! <3

Favorite lyric: I’mma make like a tree, lettuce leaf, i’mma dip

Total Score: 8.25

RJ

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Flow fits the track but I feel like it could have come with more energy. The lyrics feel a little disjointed in the first verse.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Fun energetic track on this one. I think the bass needs a little more juice though.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
All challenges completed on this one

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

I feel like I’d hear this out of an arcade cabinet before hearing it on stage

Total Score: 7

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I love the beatboxing, solid lyrics and flow.
You get stuck in the same cadence - pivot your flow sooner within your verses.
Lines can use a background layer.
I like the hypes.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Level Hella's vocals a touch higher.
Vocals can use some effects.
The drop in the hook is nice, but I think it would be more impactful with a layered and high-energy instrumentation that builds up and then breaks down post hook.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
[Review Text]

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
The challenge requirements for the round were met.

Total Score: 6

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Well done. I went in not ready but halfway in the energy caught me. I love the little disses peppered in. Beat is dope but could be pumped a bit harder. Vocals are all over the place but in the best way possible. Another team that will be strong.
Total Score: 8

CMF

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Great energy love it! These multis were beast mode too. I felt like you were actually the character.
The narration was great as well, way to add extra minor elements that make a song really pop

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Would like to see you CONTINUE TO experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me). You did this all around the entire track

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details met!

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0.5/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out. I actually came back and gave 0.5 on this portion because I realized this was definitely higher than a 9 to me.

Total Score: 9.5

Navi

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

This is a flawless performance imo. An all-around showcase of skill, charisma, range, and confident style. No notes.

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

This beat is so fun, crisp and clear. Really creative and jam packed with detailing. It pops, it bumps, etc etc. I COULD nitpick if i really wanted to, but i don’t want to. I love that bridge section before the last chorus. (damn, if ya’ll did a key change on that last hook tho...)

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

The vocal samples are really sneaky and fun. The POV is nailed. Duh, multis. And I love how the source was utilized.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). This is that track. This is my favorite song of the round.

Favorite lyric: Hmhnhm hahhahahaHAHAHAHAAAAAAAA

Total Score: 10

RJ

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Sorry YNG SLLVN but Lady J has the best character work in this round. The chorus has an awesome BIG feel to it. I’m amazed this file made it to me in one piece because it gets absolutely shredded in the verses.

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Cam3’s fingerprints are all over this super dense beat. There’s so much going on here but nothing feels like it gets lost or overpowered.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenges are crushed on this one.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Now let’s get the rest of this steven universe musical

Total Score: 10

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
The theatrics in LadyJ's delivery is spot on and on brand with Spinel.
Writing and multis are fabulous and the commitment to the character is clear.
The energy is dynamic af.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Using Spinel's signature song was a strong choice to build your beat around.
This needs more drums. While the percussion in Other Friends is great, adding another layer to those will match LadyJ's intensity closer.
I like the dramatic build ups to the hook.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
This team demonstrates that they not only understand the challenge, but they excelled at it.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.
LadyJ’s voice acting is top notch.

Total Score: 9

Bill Beats

VOCALS (3): 2/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

We have made it to the end of round 1. Beat is extra strong. Great mix on the beat, drums fill out the beat very well while still letting the melody sing. Vocals are a vibe forsure. I am not fully warmed up to them yet but I think by next round that might change. Good job yall.
Total Score: 7

CMF

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
Lol is all I will say, this was a funny character to use
Some of the lyric structure bounced around quite a bit which I think distracted from the song. Your multis would provide enough variation within the song that you shouldn’t have to switch up your delivery structure
DO THE DR WEIRD BABY - that got stuck in my head so I had to add some points back

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
Instrumental was fun, but maybe experiment with more element removal (kick, snare, orchestra) one at a time to give it a little extra spice
Vocals were mixed well but had a little too much sharpness to them - I ended up having to switch from my headphones to the computer speakers. Maybe do a de-esser on the 8000+ range or just bring the DBs down on that range in an equalizer next time
Would like to see you experiment with more differing composition over adding / removing of components during the competition (Most producers are going to get this feedback because it’s usually the last barrier to getting a 3 from me)

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge details met!

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Similarly to Navi only a few people will get this point from me each round. I need that stank face to give it out.

Total Score: 7.5

Navi

VOCALS (3): 2.5/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)

There’s a lot of fun energy and punchy writing here, and this chorus resonates with me on a visceral level. That said the lyrics get a bit unfocused when the POV has to compete with aforementioned punchlines. Performance is a bit breathy at times, but the presence and charisma makes up for it.

PRODUCTION (3): 2.5/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)

Vox could be a bit more focused in the mix, and could have also used a bit of spice to make them stand out. The composition was fun but a bit repetitive at points. I wish the drums were a bit thicker and cranked more, but in general it was a solid mix. The sample flip is solid.

CHALLENGE (3): 3/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)

Solid on all counts imo.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

As I will say in every track review, only one team is getting this point from me (for exceptional tickling of my sensibilities). Stay weird, friends. I’m looking forward to what ya’ll come up with next, cause this hit me harder than I expected. Keep working on your fine tuning and performance though! GG <3

Favorite lyric: Bars? not a word of it

Total Score: 8

RJ

VOCALS (3): 3/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
If you told me they cheated and got the voice actor for the actual Dr Weird voice actor you’d easily have me fooled for large parts of this song. Lyrics do an excellent job of setting the stage for the character. And I mean it’s hard to not enjoy lyrics that give problematic elements their airing out.

PRODUCTION (3): 3/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
One of the first things I thought following the lyrics was that this sounds like a legit [Adult Swim] mixtape track. An excellent showing of dropping samples in where they feel natural. The beat absolutely evokes the mountains of New Jersey.

CHALLENGE (3): 2.5/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Producer source sample was met but I can’t hear the vocal sample in the track. Vocalist challenges met.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 1/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

If you don’t want to do the Dr. Weird I don’t know what you do want.

Total Score: 9.5

Shubz

VOCALS (3): 1/3
(flow, lyrics, performance)
I like the voice here.
Hook needs more vocal layers.
There's some distortion around "...with the nips displayed" that cuts into the vocals.
Watch the "p's" Be mindful of your mic placement to reduce that.
There are parts of the song where you fall off your delivery (ie. "On entreme").
Ensure those bars are solid before sending them to YNGSLLVN.

PRODUCTION (3): 2/3
(instrumentation, engineering/mixing, aesthetic, composition)
The beat has some fun layers, but it doesn't move around a lot.
More drums are needed to get this track as grimy as I think it's tryin to reach.

CHALLENGE (3): 2/3
(vocalist challenge met? production challenge met? how well did the team execute the challenge)
Challenge requirements were met from this team.

EXTRA SAUCE (1): 0/1
that "je ne sais quoi" - that extra something.

Total Score: 5