zircon, aka Andrew Aversa, is already known as an accomplished remixer on OCRemix.org, a videogame remix site. He's released "EDM Compilation 1" to Jamendo, a selection of tracks from each of his for-sale CDs. His videogame influences shine through on this album, but don't worry, you won't find the Mario Theme here :) I know this is a compilation, but I'll be evaluating the whole album as a unit.
The first track, "Night Storm" is a subtle track with a subdued beat. The serious mood of this track sets the dark theme for rest of the album; although several of the tracks do not share the dark feeling, they all have a serious feeling.
"Phasma Elementum" puts the "D" in "EDM Compilation". A nice dance beat oscillates throughout. Plenty of fills and breaks keep it interesting, but this track sounded a bit too much like it came from OC Remix to me.
"Acid Domination" has driving guitars and a harder beat. The combination of rock and electronic is a hard thing to mix well, and Andy serves up a good balance on this track. This song reminds me of the work by Sonic Mayhem for Quake II.
"Downtown" has an electronic complexity that fits its metropolitan title well. It reminds me a little bit of the time I lived in downtown Chicago. The female vocals and tom-toms add a nice human element to the track.
"Studies in Ether" is a chilled tune, and probably my favorite. The breaks are softer and build slowly, giving the track more of a downtempo feel.
"Warhead" also reminds me of a Sonic Mayhem track. Complex synths with plenty of distortion play on an energetic driving beat. Is there a Street Fighter influence in here somewhere? :)
"The Art of Zen" is a progressive track that inspires contemplation. A light piano and some sort of Asian-sounding instrument alternate apperances. The song concludes with night sounds of the countryside, giving the emotion of fading into the sunset.
"Ladder to the Sky" is the final track on this album. I liked this one, probably because Andy's Hybrid influences show here. The synth at about 2:00 right before the acoustic guitar *really* sounds like a Hybrid track to me; can't put my finger on it right now... maybe the end of "Altitude"?
Strengths: Great breakbeats, nice variety.
Areas for Improvement: could've included more orchestral sounds.
Overall impression: Great job! Hopefully you'll post more of your work on Jamendo.
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