This isn't my kind of thing (too smooth, too "easy listening") but I think it's pretty well done and there is a lot of melody.
I didn't hear the previous version but there are definitely still a few problems.
I'm not particularly keen on the snare but don't particularly mind it. But it seems too far back in the mix because of the reverb on it. Whereas, you rlittle flute/penny whistle wind instrument that's panned left has no reverb. So it seems disconnected from the reverbed parts and as if it's not playing with them (even though it is, melodically-speaking).
I also think that ride is a bit too loud and prominent and also isn't quite matched with the other reverbed parts eg snare and strings.
Try applying some othe same reverb to the parts without and see if that binds things together a bit better.
Actually, I like it more on second listen. And I don't mind the fade out ending too much, something I find people tend do badly. However, it can be brilliant if done right, though you need to spend longer doing the fade and really make it so you take the listener town to zero, giving the sense that this track is just playing on forever in some club somewhere. That can have the effect of making the listener think about it going on forever so help it stick in their head.
I hope these ideas help and you can make it a bit better as I think people who are into this sort of music will like it.
Thank you StaticNomad for your constructive feedback. The reverbs is something that I struggle with so I will keep your pointers in mind. I appreciate the comment about the fading idea too.
Aw man, what an improvement. Reminds of how much a little tweaking can make of a difference. You did a great job. The snare is also less prominent and blends well in now, everything does actually. I like the play. Maybe add a break, or a modulation, that might bring it to another level. Props!
on Chicago Swing - after feedback edits by ronabo
I didn't hear the previous version but there are definitely still a few problems.
I'm not particularly keen on the snare but don't particularly mind it. But it seems too far back in the mix because of the reverb on it. Whereas, you rlittle flute/penny whistle wind instrument that's panned left has no reverb. So it seems disconnected from the reverbed parts and as if it's not playing with them (even though it is, melodically-speaking).
I also think that ride is a bit too loud and prominent and also isn't quite matched with the other reverbed parts eg snare and strings.
Try applying some othe same reverb to the parts without and see if that binds things together a bit better.
Actually, I like it more on second listen. And I don't mind the fade out ending too much, something I find people tend do badly. However, it can be brilliant if done right, though you need to spend longer doing the fade and really make it so you take the listener town to zero, giving the sense that this track is just playing on forever in some club somewhere. That can have the effect of making the listener think about it going on forever so help it stick in their head.
I hope these ideas help and you can make it a bit better as I think people who are into this sort of music will like it.
on Chicago Swing - after feedback edits by ronabo
on Chicago Swing - after feedback edits by ronabo