A Rose of Gold: DRAX (a_rose_of_gold.xm)

Overall Impression (10/10)

A groovy high quality instrumental with a catchy brass-like refrain, culminating with an absolutely mesmerizing variations.

Technique, Arrangement, Composition (10/10)

DRAX is a master of tracking. He is able to use effects that are typically used for straightforward chiptune sounds and utilize them in a way to simulate acoustic instruments. His use of tone portamento on channel 26 in pattern 11 is such a perfect simulation of a rhythm guitar. Try removing the tone portamento and see how it makes the sound less interesting.

His tone slides are perfect, realistic and serve a musical purpose.

DRAX also frequently uses synths chords to simulate brass and it works magnificently in this piece as well.

Development (10/10)

Key to a good mix are volume levels, and Thomas inevitably comes up with a consummate setup. Each instruments sits tightly in the mix, the frequency map is impeccable.

As is usual for Thomas' tracked work, the drums are prominent and largely unchanging, but I always attribute it to the zeitgeist. The 90s were the drum era, and it definitely translated into a lot of tracked music being really heavy on the drums. Having said that, I am perfectly satisfied with the drum levels on this one.

A nice haas effect on strings. Haas is also used on the bass, although I failed to hear the difference and in general using haas on bass is discouraged.

For chords DRAX is using a common technique of panning individual notes to make the chord sound across the panorama.

Creativity (10/10)

DRAX is a talented musician and his maturity as a composer is on full display here. His ability to craft groove with melody alone is second to none. What he can do with a bunch of notes, tone slides and vibrato is going to keep you tapping your foot throughout the whole thing. And every single note, every single decoration feels essential.

The tune departs enough from a verse-chorus pattern that the whole thing feels like variations in-between a repeating refrain. It culminates with a stunning solo that is the highlight of "A Rose of Gold".

There is a lot of detail. Every instrument is played as if it is a standalone performance. The bass alone is incredible. I would have preferred drums to be as interesting as the rest, say, have a drum solo in there as well. I would also start the tune with pattern with pattern 4 or even with pattern 6. But DRAX frequently starts his tunes with a pattern of drums. I will not be taking out any points because of this. Ultimately, this is not very important and melodically and creatively this is a 10/10.

Enjoyment (10/10)

Because this is made with "electronic instruments", many people seem to associate this with game music. To me this is a jazz orchestra piece which can be played live to great success.

Definitely, one of my favorite DRAX tunes.