Evolution 002 -part3 (evolution_002_-part3.xm)

Overall Impression (10/10)

This tune is bet listened right after Evolution 002 part 2. Unfortunately, we don't have Evolution 002 part 1. Not on modarchive, anyway.

Technique, Arrangement, Composition (9/10)

This is a mix made up of pretty much the same components as Microworld and Far and Away.

There are a couple of moments in the mix when overly long volume envelope tails introduce a bit of dissonance. It's hard for me fault Michal too much for that, since I think the intention here was to create an illusion of reverb and that's tough to do with envelope tails: you lose quite a bit of control. Still, I think the dissonance at pattern 22 is a mistake. Maybe it's even a wrong note places somewhere, although I wasn't able to put a finger on one.

Development (10/10)

Michal demonstrates the same Elwood-like ability of putting together a transparent mix, while infusing it with a plethora of detail. And, just like in case of Elwood, individual elements sound pretty unimpressive, but putting it all together somehow works. Patterns 16-19 is a great example of that, when instruments in channels 29-30 add this nice effect, but if you solo them - they don't sound like anything.

I also like the touch of adding sounds of nature for a few seconds in the beginning, blending it in and then never using it again. I think this is a nice touch and a completely correct decision: it gives you enough context and then letting the music do its job.

Creativity (10/10)

Before I sing praise to Michal's signature voice leading here, I have to confess that the bit in pattern 6 always reminded me of the Brinstar theme of Metroid on NES. Obviously, very different tunes, but just a funny thing I wanted to mention.

Michal manages to keep the melody going over steady chords and keep it interesting - just like I outline in my reviews of Microworld, Far and Away and possibly other tunes of his.

I particularly like the sciency feel to the whole thing. The major transitions in patterns 13 and 21 are a fun twist and give this tune such a unique feel!

Enjoyment (10/10)

In Michal's usual optimistic melancholy optimism certainly wins in this tune. It's thoughtful and grand.

I wonder if the End of Evolution is meant to be a final for this series or is a completely separate tune. The reason I am wondering is because stylistically it is quite different and is also much simpler in its execution, especially in the first half.

Either way, Evolution 002 part 3 is an exciting tune and will forever stay in my collection of Michal Wilczynski classics.