Would very much like advice on acoustic/ambient/orchestral song

[Mafiso]

Heya, this is the most recent song I have been working on with a project I am in (The Plight of Pious)

It was one of our more ambitious songs, and I think one of the better recorded ones. However, there are many things about the mix I am not sure about, and would like some other people's opinions.

There is an orchestral break down at around 3:25 so please listen a little before there and let me know what you think about the transition.

The main thing I was having issues with was dynamically making the song interesting, and trying to get the bass and cello to play along.(bass doesn't come in until the verse just so you know) Anyway, tell me what you think about everything it would really help me out thanks a lot!

www.illusionsequence.com/siren.mp3

[tenor39]

Hmmm... the strings are too low in level and indistinct in the soundstage (i.e. no depth or width). The vocal is very clear, but too prominent in the mix. The title of this song would suggest a more etherial sound, maybe a larger "space". I would definitely play with some effects in this song- delay, reverb, chorusing, etc. Start with a better balance and then craft the sound to fit the feeling of the piece.

[Mafiso]

Cool, thanks a lot for the ideas.

I realized the strings weren't necessarily distinguished well in the mix, because I wasn't sure if they should be.

Do you think the song would sound better with the strings more distinguished? or would it take away from the other elements?

I probably agree more with you that they should stand out, but I am looking for some objective opinions.

I will look into using some different effects, but they always scare me. I always look at effects like, they can really add that necessary sparkle that takes the song over the top, or they can really easily frig everything up.

Thanks for the comments though I appreciate it!

[Mafiso]

*Bump*

I figure I'll give it another shot.

Please take a listen!!