LogFAQs > #966377516

Shadoubt Shaps is definitely interesting. The soundscape and general structure is very unique and interesting, but I can't say that I really enjoy it. I can appreciate it for doing what it does though.

Beyond the Bounds has pretty nice instrumentation with the harp, strings, and percussion. The really quick and erratic nature of the main vocal line sounds super unnatural and not good. Maki Kimura is a good vocalist though, which is exemplified better in the slower vocal lines. But whoever wrote the main vocal line seems like they didn't take into account the fact that it was for a vocalist, and not for an instrument. The violin solo in the second half is quite good as well. It'll still get my vote regardless, despite my issues with it.

Theme of D4 is quite good with the acoustic guitar, piano, and sax parts in particular. Pretty nice melody too. Best part is the piano solo at 2:40. Very good song overall.

The tap dancing in Partners is the highlight of this song. Pretty good melody with the violin and accordion as well. Best part is the violin solo at 2:30. Really good performance there. Actually somewhat conflicted on what to vote for on this match. Both songs are quite excellent.

Yoru ~ Sailing is everything for me. First of all, Ilaria Graziano has one of the most beautiful voices I've heard, and she does an incredible job here. The tin whistle, piano, double bass, and the soft drums in the background of the Yoru half add a ton to the ambience of it. The section at 2:47 is really neat as well with the marimba part creating a mystical sense to the piece. The transition to the Sailing half is really seamless and perfect. I love the Sailing half almost as much as the Yoru half. Gorgeous celtic piece by Kanno. Great melody, and great instrumentation more than anything with the violins, winds, percussion, bass, strings and everything. 100% my favorite song of bracket D.

The transition from the peaceful Sailing to TAKE. CONTROL. is quite amusing. I think I like the second half of this one better than the first half when it takes a more ballad-like approach. The first half is good too, but the vocal line isn't really doing it for me. It doesn't feel like a cohesive melody to me. Definitely not the best Old Gods of Asgard song, but it's pretty good still.

Some very strong songs today.

Votes:
Beyond the Bounds
abstain until I listen to both songs again and can make a better decision on it
Yoru ~ Sailing