"Bipolar" still remains one of my favorites, perhaps for sentimental reasons. The control of dynamics is superb, and the subtle tonal changes, and the change in moods is done with expert precision. The guitar cuts clearly through the soothing music, with a crystal clear tone. However, "Bipolar" is a bit of a misnomer, for it does not really resemble bipolar disorder. The song shifts between a mellow, reflective mood, and buildups to a dramatic "chorus". However, it lacks the feel of true bipolar disorder, which is highlighted by its manic phase. If Daniel had intended to portray that phase, I feel like a more aggressive, uncontrolled sound would have done the job better. However, for a freshman effort, excellent work, with solid production skills that I envy.
"Apollo" is a curious piece, in that it carefully conveys a sense of adventure, but avoids going too loud and powerful, keeping an air of tranquility. This actually is an interesting concept for a listener. Do all adventures have to be loud, majestic, and overbearing? Could they not be quiet, peaceful, and subtle? For two minutes of music, it gives us a lot to think about. As a side note, I quite liked the atmospheric effect of the drums. The sparse and almost off beat distance of the drumming gave a surreal glimpse into the experience of an astronaut.
"My Beloved" is a good piece, but not up to Daniel's potential. It seems overly simplistic and rather generic compared to many of his other works, with less dynamic variation and atmospheric power. If there is one thing I admire about Daniel, it is his sense of atmosphere, which was so brilliantly illustrated in "Apollo". Honestly, I found the addition of the sax solo a bit unnecessary and rather ill suited to the atmosphere he was trying to create. Don't get me wrong, Daniel did a good job here, but I expect better from him.
On "The Dream Atelier", Daniel Do has pulled a Bob Dylan. He used something known as simplicity. In its best uses, simplicity can be the most artistic of all techniques. With less electronic haze and instrumental clutter, Daniel's piano skills and artistic composition is clearly visible as he constructs a simple, yet elegant melody. Note the fantastic dynamic buildup that rises into a powerful, swaying climax at 3:30ish. The flute solo following the climax is also just perfect, unlike the incongruous solo from "My Beloved". This solo cuts at you, and is played with a bittersweet emotion that is indecipherable. Fantastic work, Daniel.
"Paradox" is one of Daniel's experimental pieces, with lots of electronic influences, and with many experimental compositions, some elements work, and some don't. The screaming electronic solo was quite the artistic choice, and well composed, but I really disliked the dubstep percussion style that plagued the first half of the song; it was quite obnoxious. The second, more atmospheric (or more typically Daniel Do) half of the song was much better. As a conclusion, Daniel Do should be respected for his experimental attempt, for it take some bravery to do such a thing, but he needs to refine his style to make it truly work.
"Apollo Pt. 2" is a piece that I like a lot, because we finally get to see some aggression from Daniel. Distorted guitar, funky bass, and some sick soloing keep the track moving. I don't quite feel the congruence with the first part of Apollo, but this is certainly one of the most original of his tracks. Fans of his softer style will still enjoy this aggressive attempt, because Daniel still retains the artsy piano pop roots from before, but now allows himself to go loose and strike out with power. Excellent work!
"Parasol" is nothing spectacular, nice music and all, but is a bit of a drag in the originality department. It's one of those simple songs, but it falls into such typical pop melodic patters that it quickly loses the listener's interest. The sweet piano bit at the end is a very nice touch, where Daniel once again shows his atmospheric skills.
"Sudden Movement", Daniel's latest release, definitely ranks among his best. It shows off his formidable piano skills, and explores dynamics and jazzy building style. One basic piano riff outlines the song, with Daniel using jazzy chord add-ons and improvisational trills, with added instruments for a richer texture. Being a blues fan, I really liked the piece, and felt it was a more original and more successful experimental piece than "Paradox".
In conclusion, I consider Daniel Do an excellent composer with a lot of skill. Though he has yet to reach his full potential, I am confident that we can expect great things from him.
Continue with your passion, Daniel!
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