Pilgrims And Indians (new "added drums" mix 4 Feb)

I've not been around much lately due to various things, but here's a song I did a couple of months back that never quite got finished.  Or maybe it did?
 
The style starts out as orchestral/chamber music (representing the puritanical pilgrims), and then the Indians arrive (with their big drums and such).  Anyway, I'd be curious what you folks think of it.  Maybe it works as-is?
 
https://soundcloud.com/arcanor/pilgrims-and-indians
 
Thanks in advance for listening. :)
 
EDIT: uploaded a new "added drums" mix on Feb 4th.  Thanks for your suggestions everyone!  I hope you like the new version.

There are possibly some bits I might have changed in the mix but that is just purely personal taste and should be in no means interpreted as there being anything wrong with this mix.
 
Nice, thanks for sharing

I liked it. IMHO, I would have brought out the drive in the percussion more but that's a difference in taste. I also felt that the percussion section could have been introduced as a theme (like the intro)
It's fine as is  though Walt! You give me Ideas, as do all your recordings, on how to use the soft synths!! Thanks for the post!

Lynn
Walt, I think this sounds pretty darn good as is.  Had it been much longer, it would have needed another movement, but it can stand on its own.  I think it begs for a video or something to give it focus, but that's just a conceptual thing.  The music rocks.

Thanks Lynn.  I wasn't planning on a video, but maybe I should start thinking about doing something like that.  I really liked your "Our Planet" video.  It took the song to the next level.

theguitarplayer
Lots of nice sounds there Walt. I think the middle section is way to long for this piece, unless, of course, you plan on adding some other instrumentation in the middle, like some awesome guitar work, bass and lead, then it would work better for me, but, it's not about me because it is your piece. It all sounds great and a nice mix, but as is the middle could be cut back some so the over all length of the piece is about 2:30 long. Just my opinion. Great work as usual.
 
Peace and Blessings, John

Thanks John.  I have been thinking of adding some guitar (or other lead instrument) over the section around 1:50 to 2:30.  There are some things happening there under the hood, but maybe they're a bit too subtle.

bayoubill
I liked it. IMHO, I would have brought out the drive in the percussion more but that's a difference in taste. I also felt that the percussion section could have been introduced as a theme (like the intro)
It's fine as is  though Walt! You give me Ideas, as do all your recordings, on how to use the soft synths!! Thanks for the post!

Thanks Bill.  I just listened to a few of your songs - you're a talented guitarist and songwriter/arranger!  And your style is very versatile.  I loved your Testify cover, as well as your bebop tribute song "John L" right next to it!  I don't hear much synth on your tracks though.  I'm curious what your Ideas might come up with. :)
 
As for this song, I don't understand which percussion you're referring to... do you mean the drumbeat that starts around 0:56?  Or maybe the synth arpeggio that comes in around 1:13?  Or possibly the "war drums" section that comes in around 2:28?

BBB
Many elements of the mix that I like - everything fits together well, and the composition is nice.
 
The synth that comes in at 1:13 seems to be the highlight of the middle part of the song. It conveys a good energy. I think it would liven up the mix if it were a bit brighter. Maybe through EQ, or maybe by mixing in a second more bright synth. Just something to consider.

Thanks BBB.  I will consider your thoughts as it seems this song is not quite finished after all. :)

bayoubill
Sorry I should have specified and please don't think I was criticizing the piece. I was talking about 1:30 and the volume basically and at 2:28 for introducing the war drums and developing a predominate( not volume wise) drum pattern. I remember looking at the title as it played and not feeling it as an American Indian rhythm. But, it is just fine like Wookie said there's absolutely nothing wrong with the mix or the arrangement! I admire your work and I have learned from listening!

That is good criticism!  I'm here to learn, so please don't apologize for helping me do so. :)  I appreciate honest opinions, even if (perhaps especially if) they aren't favorable.
 
And, by the way, you're quite right about it not being an authentic American Indian rhythm.  I will look into that and see if maybe I can find a good example to draw from and possibly re-do it.  I wanted it to sound authentic, but it's good to be aware that it didn't work, so I can make that part better.  Thank you! :)

Scottytunes
Very cool tune. Looking forward to the finished product.

Thanks for listening Scotty.  I will of course post here when there's a revision.

Pilgrims and... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OX7IbaAGzxk
 

Hi Walt, it's a small world sometimes.
Can't help bad taste in football teams.

Very nice mix.

Walt, sounds great to me. And finished. Love the bottom on this. If you're like me they are never finished, just let go.

Hi my dear friend "Walt"
very nice, congratulations. I wish you continued success
 
best regards,

Grup Gezgin

I really like your style Walt!!  This is very cool!  It reminds me (for some reason) of the music from the film "Requiem For A Dream".  But I really dig "Among The Stars".  That is one of my favorites of yours!!!