Díes Írae: Episode #5 <8/08/10>

[Zankoku no Yami]

Romance of the Sky & Ocean Productions Presents
~Díes Írae~

http://img703.imageshack.us/img703/5941/53727449633269708607015.png

SYNOPSIS: A thousand years ago there was a war known by the name Prologue to Dies Irae. During this war, the Goddess Evangeline cut the strings to her very own existence and was forever lost within the fabric of time. However, now that Gaia needs her aid once again, she has been resurrected within the orphan Esther Keshet. Together, along with her childhood friends—Jay and Allen—she sets out on a journey to save the world from Dies Irae. Though, not all is as it seems… nor is this fairy tale of love, friendship and betrayal. Conspiracy boils as truth is mixed within a sea of lies. Who are the real enemies? Who are the real heroes? Do not miss a single chapter within the epic tale of Dies Irae.

What is reality… and what is just another lie fabricated by memories that just will not stay dead?

Episode #5: Tying Up Loose Strings…
Scene #1: Medium Quality (www.fighting-dreamer.com/zank/Dies%20Irae/Episode%205/Dies%20Irae%20-%20Episode%205%20Scene%201%20M.mp3) | Low Quality (www.fighting-dreamer.com/zank/Dies%20Irae/Episode%205/Dies%20Irae%20-%20Episode%205%20Scene%201%20L.mp3)
+Length: 18:20
+Size: 16.7mb (MQ)

Scene #2: Medium Quality (www.fighting-dreamer.com/zank/Dies%20Irae/Episode%205/Dies%20Irae%20-%20Episode%205%20Scene%202%20M.mp3) | Low Quality (www.fighting-dreamer.com/zank/Dies%20Irae/Episode%205/Dies%20Irae%20-%20Episode%205%20Scene%202%20L.mp3)
+Length: 3:55
+Size: 3.60mb

Scene #3: Medium Quality (www.fighting-dreamer.com/zank/Dies%20Irae/Episode%205/Dies%20Irae%20-%20Episode%205%20Scene%203%20M.mp3) | Low Quality (www.fighting-dreamer.com/zank/Dies%20Irae/Episode%205/Dies%20Irae%20-%20Episode%205%20Scene%203%20L.mp3)
+Length: 4:45
+Size: 4.37mb

Scene #4: Medium Quality (www.fighting-dreamer.com/zank/Dies%20Irae/Episode%205/Dies%20Irae%20-%20Episode%205%20Scene%204%20M.mp3) | Low Quality (www.fighting-dreamer.com/zank/Dies%20Irae/Episode%205/Dies%20Irae%20-%20Episode%205%20Scene%204%20L.mp3)
+Length: 10:35
+Size: 9.69mb

Next Episode Preview: Medium Quality (www.fighting-dreamer.com/zank/Dies%20Irae/Episode%205/Dies%20Irae%20-%20Episode%205%20Scene%205%20M.mp3) | Low Quality (www.fighting-dreamer.com/zank/Dies%20Irae/Episode%205/Dies%20Irae%20-%20Episode%205%20Scene%205%20L.mp3)
+Length: 3:00
+Size: 2.06mb

Total Running Time: 40:15

Cast: <In Order of Appearance>
Esther: KitsuneSqueak
Jay: Masako-kun
Allen: Okami-kun
Eva: KitsuneSqueak

Vesta: XTREEMMAK (S2)
Coelia: Mochan (S2)
Gegania: Makopi (S2)
Veneneia: Magic-Kaito (S2)

Lucius: XTREEMMAK (NEP)

Music:
Opening: Lands of Forever - XTREEMMAK
Sound Garden
Trusty Bell
Tales of the Abyss
Cried
Elfen Lied
Code Geass

SFX:
Sounddogs
SFX Source
Misc. SFX from Edwyn

Previous Episodes:
Episode #1: Time Goes By So Fast… (http://voiceactingalliance.com/board/showthread.php?t=27122)
Episode #2: The Wheel of Fate (http://voiceactingalliance.com/board/showthread.php?t=28446)
Episode #3: Rebirth of a Goddess (http://voiceactingalliance.com/board/showthread.php?t=34449)
Episode #4: Journey to the Past (http://voiceactingalliance.com/board/showthread.php?t=40730)

Also Check Out:
Prologue to Dies Irae: Episode #1 (http://voiceactingalliance.com/board/showthread.php?t=57421)

Dies Irae – COPYRIGHT 2001-2011 Jeremiah Caudle All Rights Reserved

[XTREEMMAK]

Wonderful episode!
Everyone did a great job on their rolls. I think I needed to roll off my lows a bit; came in a bit aggressive lol. I do feel though that these are probably one of my better performance lol. I think I was having fun with this one lol. Just a few things I could hear. On certain sound effects, to avoid the cutoff, they needed to be faded out slightly at the tail (including reverbs). Coelia (Mochan) did a superb job, but the highs were sucked out of her phenomenal performance. Usually that happens with too much noise removal.

If that's the case, if she didn't remove the noise herself, then I'd say gate before noise removal (even though that doesn't get everything) . If she did, one thing you can look into Zank is faking an Opto Compressor which may or may not work. Sometimes it makes a performance sparkle, other times it "brings the nature of an mp3 to the front" aka lovely losssy compression noise lol. Let me know if you wish for me to explain this effect.

Otherwise, sound effects were placed very well. To add more dimension to the scene, I would say just a tad more panning effect.
Mix was great and I laughed a lot at scene one.

Great Show and well done Zank!
Looking forward to Ep6!

[Zankoku no Yami]

Wonderful episode!
Everyone did a great job on their rolls. I think I needed to roll off my lows a bit; came in a bit aggressive lol. I do feel though that these are probably one of my better performance lol. I think I was having fun with this one lol. Just a few things I could hear. On certain sound effects, to avoid the cutoff, they needed to be faded out slightly at the tail (including reverbs). Coelia (Mochan) did a superb job, but the highs were sucked out of her phenomenal performance. Usually that happens with too much noise removal.

If that's the case, if she didn't remove the noise herself, then I'd say gate before noise removal (even though that doesn't get everything) . If she did, one thing you can look into Zank is faking an Opto Compressor which may or may not work. Sometimes it makes a performance sparkle, other times it "brings the nature of an mp3 to the front" aka lovely losssy compression noise lol. Let me know if you wish for me to explain this effect.

Otherwise, sound effects were placed very well. To add more dimension to the scene, I would say just a tad more panning effect.
Mix was great and I laughed a lot at scene one.

Great Show and well done Zank!
Looking forward to Ep6!

Cutoffs: I was trying to mess with that, but I always seem to have trouble doing it QUITE right. I try to narrow the volume to avoid it being too noticeable, but to a keen ear or good speakers, they are quite clear. I'll try fadding them next time. But yeah, cutoff's annoy my ear because I KNOW they are there *sweatdrop* I was also messing with them on the reverbs and thought I did it better... might have needed more work though. Because when listening to past episodes where the reverbs get cut off... I start grinding my teeth, haha!

Noise reduction: Yeah, give me abit more insight on that. I know I personally noise reduced her lines in scene 1. But they were already noise reduced in scene 2 (I went to noise reduce them and saw they already were. I got rid of a few pieces of noise that remained, but I didnt do anything dramatic). Gosh, I havent messed with noise reduction much recently. I was doing a decent job in understanding it before (like how to set the level so I am not noise reducing several times). But I really didnt have to play with it much on this one. If I recall... i *THINK* these lines were before mochan got her new mic. I think she got a new one... anyway! Yeah, any tips on noise reduction are great. I am always looking for ways to make peoples lines sound better. Now if only I could look into getting that drown out sound a little less obvious on some members (more so in other projects).

Also, panning still eludes me. I might need some more advice on it. Because I have been experimenting with panning; but I do not completely always get the results I want.

Haha, I am glad you actually liked the first scene! Because I had HELL trying to make that thing enjoyable. Because, well... "I" felt worn out after writing all that! So many explanations! And BOY did I make my cast HATE me! Should hear all the random comments inbetween Allen's lines. Okami made it clear that I was 'busting' his balls, haha. I was laughing my head off due to his remarks. Mochan also hated me VERY much for all the crazy names~ anywho! Just glad i managed to make it some what enjoyable to suffer through!

Thanks for the review! As usual, I will try to apply it to the mixing of the next episode. Like I TRIED to add a bit more ambience in this scene where I could. Still working on that a bit more.

EDIT: Forgot to mention. I love your performances~ you should have more fun with them more often! Because they turn out great when you do!

[Makopi]

I gave this a full listen as soon as it came out, but sorry for taking so long to reply! @_@; I really enjoyed this episode, and I'm honored to be voicing alongside all these talented people.

Review time:

Esther (KitsuneSqueak): I love how you play this character, you give her just the right amount of spunk and impatience, and you've really got it nailed! Your voice and delivery just embodies the character. Spectacular job~

Jay (Masako-kun): Your voice is very soothing and pleasant. I really enjoy your performance as this character, and I noticed that your mic quality sounds very nice as well. The way you delivered your lines when he was talking to Esther in the second scene really drew me in, so awesome job on that. I didn't notice anything to nitpick~ very nice!

Allen (Okami-kun): You sound so believable that some of your yawns actually made me yawn, lol. I really don't know what else I can say but I loved what I heard and look forward to hearing more.

Eva (KitsuneSqueak): I'm really impressed with the contrast between Esther and Eva, Esther having that raspy and boisterous voice and Eva having that mature and gentle tone! And I'm also impressed with those long monologues, it's really difficult to get good takes of super-long lines, so bravo. XD I love your range.

Vesta (XTREEMMAK): Wow, I'm blown away by your work...some of your lines were said with such good delivery that it sent chills up my spine. What can I say but amazing job? <3

Coelia (Mochan): Spectacular job on your delivery, emotion, tone, everything, but the thing I noticed was that your lines sounded a bit fuzzy, and I'm going to have to second that it took away from your performance a bit...but still, applause!

Veneneia (Magic Kaito): A little peaking here and there, but I absolutely love how you go all-out! With only a small amount of lines, you really impressed me~ great job.

Mixing was very good as well, I didn't notice any flaws there.

Keep up the good work everyone, and I'm very excited for future episodes~ <3

- Makopi

[XTREEMMAK]

Dont be stingy with your reviews people!
Juz Du Iiit!

[Zankoku no Yami]

Really now...?

Come on people! Your reviews are what fuel my inspiration which I need in order to breath life into these here tales! Do not suffocate me with your silenece! *teartear*

[ValkyrieCeles]

OK, I just marathoned all five episodes so I'm all caught up! XD

I really like this a lot. At first I thought it would be cliche, but it's far from it. I really like the detail you've given to the plot and the characters, and it really adds a lot of depth to the story.

I don't really have anything to say about the mixing or voices or acting, they all were really good! I think everyone is well situated into their roles now and it's coming out really well xD I really like the skits at the end of the episodes too! Just overall, a great series.

Please bring episode 6 asap!

[Zankoku no Yami]

OK, I just marathoned all five episodes so I'm all caught up! XD

I really like this a lot. At first I thought it would be cliche, but it's far from it. I really like the detail you've given to the plot and the characters, and it really adds a lot of depth to the story.

I don't really have anything to say about the mixing or voices or acting, they all were really good! I think everyone is well situated into their roles now and it's coming out really well xD I really like the skits at the end of the episodes too! Just overall, a great series.

Please bring episode 6 asap!

Now THAT is a marathon alright! But it helps to listen to them all in a row; eliminates things like 'oh, that is cliche'd!' at least a little. Because the more you listen the less cliche'd you realize it is (since the cliche's tend to mask the truth with lies).

I am glad you enjoyed it! And I do put tons of work into the plot and characters (to me, it should be the ONLY thing that leads a story). So I am glad that you liked that about it. To me, everything is about depth so if it is noticed; than I have done my job. And thanks to my amazing cast, I am able to bring out the individuality of each character.

And I am trying! If I could just get a single VA to get her lines in *TWITCH* than everything will be just PEACHY! *teartear* so excited to finish the first half of episode 6 too!! And I just happen to be missing a couple of lines *DIES*

Thanks for listening and for your comments! They really do help~

Also, look forward to seeing this in game form soon! I have video demos up; but I just recently got a scripter to help with the programming (which will REALLY allow me to speed through it a bit more). And I am in the middle of getting a mapper.

[Margo]

This is really awesome, man. I finally got the chance to listen to the whole thing! Your mixing has really improved, I'm impressed :)
Whoa, I think I noticed a Persona SFX in there somewhere... XD

I like this story, all the little scenes of just Esther and the gang hanging out are really cute.

XTREEMMAK, that opening theme is really freaking catchy. You did a great job, love it!!! Your acting is also super! I love how as Vesta you just really sounded very nervous and mentally unstable, it was really believable.

KIT KIT AND MASAKO, I missed you guys. You both sound great as always. Kit, I noticed your high voice has really, really improved! It sounds a lot more natural, and the expression is great!

This is probably a little too late (and is really just personal opinion), but I do think it would be cool if Esther and Eva sounded a little more alike. If I were to explain it like you were singing... I would say lift the soft palate a bit and speak with a bit more of a flowy feel. I think there is a little bit of your boy voice creeping into your Eva voice, but I imagine Eva is a very elegant woman? Sorry if this is a bad explanation... XD

Masa Masa, I love how gentle your voice is here. You make Jay seem like just a really nice guy to be friends with :)

Okami-kun, I love the lazy genius. It's cute when you go off into your little explanations of things. Great character in everything you do here!

Mochan sounds great. What a pretty voice, and you're doing a great job with the character.

Can't wait to hear more from all of you! :blush

[Zankoku no Yami]

This is really awesome, man. I finally got the chance to listen to the whole thing! Your mixing has really improved, I'm impressed :)
Whoa, I think I noticed a Persona SFX in there somewhere... XD

I like this story, all the little scenes of just Esther and the gang hanging out are really cute.

XTREEMMAK, that opening theme is really freaking catchy. You did a great job, love it!!! Your acting is also super! I love how as Vesta you just really sounded very nervous and mentally unstable, it was really believable.

KIT KIT AND MASAKO, I missed you guys. You both sound great as always. Kit, I noticed your high voice has really, really improved! It sounds a lot more natural, and the expression is great!

This is probably a little too late (and is really just personal opinion), but I do think it would be cool if Esther and Eva sounded a little more alike. If I were to explain it like you were singing... I would say lift the soft palate a bit and speak with a bit more of a flowy feel. I think there is a little bit of your boy voice creeping into your Eva voice, but I imagine Eva is a very elegant woman? Sorry if this is a bad explanation... XD


No, no. Esther and Eva cannot sound alike just yet. No, no, that would not do at all! In fact, in each arc, Esther begins to sound more like EVA, hehehe... you'll understand in the long run! But there is a huge transformation as each of the four arcs goes on.

[QUOTE]Masa Masa, I love how gentle your voice is here. You make Jay seem like just a really nice guy to be friends with :)

Hehe, you say that NOW. Wait until KITSUNE GETS IN HER FREAKIN MISSING LINES FOR EPISODE 6!!! Then you shall see~

[quote]Okami-kun, I love the lazy genius. It's cute when you go off into your little explanations of things. Great character in everything you do here!

HALARIOUS when you hear him do it straight in a row. He makes all kinds of funny comments, hehe "since the only thing I am good for in this series is explaining things!" "Zankoku... you are BUSTING my BALLS"


Mochan sounds great. What a pretty voice, and you're doing a great job with the character.

Can't wait to hear more from all of you! :blush

Hopefully soon! Got LOTS of updates coming along for the video game!

http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/26/esthercolored.th.jpg (http://img192.imageshack.us/i/esthercolored.jpg/)-->http://img251.imageshack.us/img251/3390/req1wip.gif-->http://img84.imageshack.us/img84/9299/estherbatani.gif

Glad you enjoyed it! And thanks for the review~ been a while!!

[Margo]

Looks like it's gonna be awesome! :)

And hey, isn't that what you're aiming to make Jay out to be up to this point? ;)

[Zankoku no Yami]

Looks like it's gonna be awesome! :)

And hey, isn't that what you're aiming to make Jay out to be up to this point? ;)

Hehe, yep! It just makes the next episode EVER the more tear jerking. I love how when Kitsune was editing all the episodes up till 6, she said she would cry when she got to it~

[Zankoku no Yami]

ART!

http://img192.imageshack.us/img192/26/esthercolored.th.jpg (http://img192.imageshack.us/i/esthercolored.jpg/)http://img149.imageshack.us/img149/3637/enchantmajaycoloredfina.th.jpg (http://img149.imageshack.us/i/enchantmajaycoloredfina.jpg/)http://img836.imageshack.us/img836/4931/vestacolored.th.jpg (http://img836.imageshack.us/i/vestacolored.jpg/)

[Adam]

I don't know why it took me so damn long to listen to this....shame on me for that...bah.

I keep hearing great things about this so I'm going to kill two birds with one stone and go animate and listen to all episodes to date. I'll be editing in my comments on this when I finish.

Though I'm about a minute in the first episode and it's just so damn well done. The writing is very grabbing, so yeah, I think I'm going to like this, a lot.

[Zankoku no Yami]

Glad you liked what you heard so far~ I look forward to hearing what you think!


and go animate and listen to all episodes to date
I was a bit confused what you meant there, haha. *is easily confused*

[Adam]

Glad you liked what you heard so far~ I look forward to hearing what you think!


I was a bit confused what you meant there, haha. *is easily confused*

Oh, lol. I just meant I was going to go work on finishing my current project while listening to this lol. I usually listen to music while I animate, I opted to listen to this instead.

Alright, I'm officially caught up. Still overwhelmed with just how amazing this is. So you're stuck with a general review.

The acting, you have gathered one hell of a cast for this, all of them were great. Emotions were outstanding and extremely engaging. Just wow.

The mixing is of such high quality.

And the writing, the writing is very deep and engaging. I'm a fan now haha.

I'm sad that I don't have anymore to listen to right now. Bah.

Good job on this. I wish we had more original works like this to balance out all the fan dubs on here >_>

[Zankoku no Yami]

Oh, lol. I just meant I was going to go work on finishing my current project while listening to this lol. I usually listen to music while I animate, I opted to listen to this instead.

Alright, I'm officially caught up. Still overwhelmed with just how amazing this is. So you're stuck with a general review.

The acting, you have gathered one hell of a cast for this, all of them were great. Emotions were outstanding and extremely engaging. Just wow.

The mixing is of such high quality.

And the writing, the writing is very deep and engaging. I'm a fan now haha.

I'm sad that I don't have anymore to listen to right now. Bah.

Good job on this. I wish we had more original works like this to balance out all the fan dubs on here >_>

Just wait, the cast gets even bigger!

And I am glad you enjoyed it so much~ once Kitsune gets me the redos/missing lines, I will have the first half of episode 6 out! Hopefully the second half will not be too far behind! But I understand; I cant wait to get mixing the next episode! The time between each one is KILLING me because all I am ever missing is the lines *teartear*

And I agree. But sadly; its not really a lack of original works, but a lack of attention GOING to the original works out there. There are a good number right around here. But because of popularity, fandubs seem to be the only pieces of work that get any real attention. Its quite sad; I still need to sit down and review a good few around here. Though I saw you saw XTREEMMAK's flur! Just wondering if maybe you noticed it in my signature~ (I am just hoping that maybe things like that help get certain projects notice. Because if so, I want to do it more. As a producer, I want to help other producers get recognition!)

ANYWAY! Thanks a TON for reviewing and letting me know your thoughts! Seriously, with the decline in reviews and critique; its wonderful to know ANYONE is listening and taking the time to let us know what they think~

And keep your eyes pilled! I hope to release more for your enjoyment~ (also, there is a game in the making! So that should be fun!)

[Adam]

Just wait, the cast gets even bigger!

And I am glad you enjoyed it so much~ once Kitsune gets me the redos/missing lines, I will have the first half of episode 6 out! Hopefully the second half will not be too far behind! But I understand; I cant wait to get mixing the next episode! The time between each one is KILLING me because all I am ever missing is the lines *teartear*

And I agree. But sadly; its not really a lack of original works, but a lack of attention GOING to the original works out there. There are a good number right around here. But because of popularity, fandubs seem to be the only pieces of work that get any real attention. Its quite sad; I still need to sit down and review a good few around here. Though I saw you saw XTREEMMAK's flur! Just wondering if maybe you noticed it in my signature~ (I am just hoping that maybe things like that help get certain projects notice. Because if so, I want to do it more. As a producer, I want to help other producers get recognition!)

ANYWAY! Thanks a TON for reviewing and letting me know your thoughts! Seriously, with the decline in reviews and critique; its wonderful to know ANYONE is listening and taking the time to let us know what they think~

And keep your eyes pilled! I hope to release more for your enjoyment~ (also, there is a game in the making! So that should be fun!)

Awesome, extensive cast lists are great. I have about 30 in mine lol.

Yeah, you're right, it's pretty much the ridiculous increase in fandub popularity. I know they've always been popular, but it just seems to have gotten so much more over the past few years. I think the ratio is somewhere like 10:1 in terms of reviews, fandub to original works.

Audio still seems to get reviews though, even if it's not a lot, there's some. Visual...forget it, if your visual project isn't a fan based work then for the most part there's views but not a single review. Though I know there's some ideas of how to bring the focus on all original works.

As for FLUR, yeah haha, I saw it in your sig and he had recently bumped it too. Good advertising haha.

[Zankoku no Yami]

Awesome, extensive cast lists are great. I have about 30 in mine lol.

Yeah, you're right, it's pretty much the ridiculous increase in fandub popularity. I know they've always been popular, but it just seems to have gotten so much more over the past few years. I think the ratio is somewhere like 10:1 in terms of reviews, fandub to original works.

Audio still seems to get reviews though, even if it's not a lot, there's some. Visual...forget it, if your visual project isn't a fan based work then for the most part there's views but not a single review. Though I know there's some ideas of how to bring the focus on all original works.

As for FLUR, yeah haha, I saw it in your sig and he had recently bumped it too. Good advertising haha.

I forgot to reply to this~

Big cast lists are especially great if you can make sure to include enough time for everyone, hehe. I have broken mine up and spread them around so that I can make sure each and everyone is as important as the last~

10:1 sounds about right. And sadly, most our reviews and critique are from either friends or the cast. Rarely do you see someone randomly appear (and many who listen dont critique sadly! I don't care if it isnt the best review; just something is nice, hehe).

Now, I gotta find more time to review myself... oy, so little time in the day!

And coolies. We should find a system of promoting each others stuff more then~

[Zankoku no Yami]

Pushing this up for a spell~

And of course, wanting to insure an update:

Right now, I am still waiting on two VERY slow and naughty VAs who owe me lines (who wants to start busting some arses for me? I pay VERY well! Mwahaha...). Once I get those, the first half of episode 6 will commence.

Sad the only thing I am ever waiting on is lines. Because 11 out of the 13 planned episodes for season 1 are complete. It might even be 12 episodes, seeing how the scripting for episode 12 goes and how much is really needed to tie up this season. In the mean time, I am working heavily on the game. And waiting to buy a new pair of awesome headphones... oh, how mixing with these cheap pieces of crap SUCKS. Too bad my good ones had to go and break...

Anyway! Yeah, that is what is going on for those who actually care, haha. And hopefully I will have something in the near future *sigh* also, note, I have a few new and extra characters that need filling. So for those rare fans, feel free to contact me if interested. Either way! I am alive and so is the series! Annnnnd... so is Prologue. But I need two new leads sooooo... yeah.

[dragonknighttara]

Okay, so, basically I've been meaning to listen to this piece since I literally joined the VAA so I'm glad I was finally able to marathon through everything at last!

My verdict? This is a really really fun audio drama. It has a very strong anime influence, with what seems like a dash of Avatar thrown in for good measure, and pulls out some neat original stops to make it it's own thing. You're cast is really nicely rounded and distinct, which is a huge plus, and you can tell they've got a really solid handle on what they're doing with their characters. Also, the sheer fact that you've released this much is really a tribute the dedication of everyone involved and I give you so many props for that as well.

Voicing:

Kitsune - I had no idea you were both Esther and Eva, until I managed to look at the cast list AFTER listening through, which is really fantastic that you managed that. You got both voice AND characterization nailed down to two very distinct characters, which is no easy task. Your energy on Esther too is really astonishing to me and you can really play both her screaming fits and the moments where she breaks down awesomely. You're a great lead for this project and I think this was a really excellent casting choice.

Masako and Okami - you are really great supporting lead characters in this and again, you both feel distinct enough from each other despite being in similar types of roles. Allen is probably one of my favorite characters and he really feels like an endearing brother/father to Esther. At the same time, Jay sounds very much like a softy/idealist with his head in the clouds, and Okami, your voice lends really well to that. You guys both handle the comedy bits really well, but I wouldn't mind hearing you push some of the serious and intense emotions a bit further though, especially when you go to sound threatening or intimidating. Not that they're bad now, but if I had anything to pick at, I'd like to see if you can bring that out more as the series continues. Otherwise, lovely work.

The villains of this series are also really fun - I don't think I can individually name all of you, but XTREEMMAK and Lucien are really hilarious to hear when they go crazy over the top flamboyant, and I *loved* how evil Batgirl sounded in her role, especially with her voice echoing in Claude's head in the middle of the fight. Coelia, Gegania, and Veneneia, I also really enjoyed your scene, but I had a lot of trouble telling you apart unless you all spoke in an order and I could pick out the varying distinctions with them back to back. I don't know if pitch or delivery style might be something to pronounce a bit more to avoid this, but that was really my main note for you.

Music:

I normally don't mention too much about music, but overall I really liked the tone the music set and I think you had a good use of recurring types of themes that established a really nice mood throughout the series. Little audio cues like that are great to grab onto and I liked hearing that, so I just wanted to mention that was a cool detail I picked out. Also, total kudos to XTREEMMAK for that incredible opening!

Mixing: With rare exceptions (mainly if characters are mumbling) I was really happy to hear that levels sounded very consistent and easy to make out throughout on the vocals. I didn't have to do a lot of volume adjusting (which is great) and the bit I did was normally when characters were either mumbling briefly or Kitsune was yelling for a long stretch XD Sound effects, I have to say did sound rather low quality compared to how good the rest of the mix was, so I was a little disappointed those were consistently on the more hollow side. This was particularly noticeable for me as far as ambiance and footsteps were concerned and is something I would really strongly encourage you to upgrade on, especially given how much is in the VAA library as of the past year or so.You knew where to place them, so I think it would bring up the quality of this production a lot if some of the sounds were clearer and the ambiance easier to make out (there were a few times I thought the ambiance was something different than what it was and I didn't realize I was hearing anything else until a character commented on the surroundings :/). I definitely do have to commend you though for the fight and magical sequences - those are where a lot of people's mixes tend to get very disoriented and your's was VERY refreshingly coherent, which was awesome.

Writing: I have to admit, while overall I really enjoyed the direction and story line of this piece so far, there were definitely some specifics in the writing I'd like to just make note of. I think one of the things in this project that it kind of shoots itself in the foot with - especially in terms of rising up to the next level - is some tone confusion. Basically, there are times when this is very comedic sounding and high energy - especially when Kitsune's character is screaming and being a total tomboy - but then it will suddenly switch to being dark and sombre where she's crying and really aware of the burden of her destiny in the story. Now this something I can see being possible manage gradually, but at the moment it's still jarring whenever we have the switch because it keeps happening at the drop of a dime, and in less of a natural progression of emotion. Listening to it all in a single setting I think this was particularly noticeable and after a while it seemed to get harder to keep up with. I'd really love to see this become something that is gradually built in and out of, or maybe toned back a bit, or even just have one aspect or the other highlighted specifically so that the direction is more clear overall.

Another thing I noticed was that a lot of times I was having trouble following some of the new character introductions as well as the exact details of the quest at times as they were brought up. Part of this I think might have been due to starting midway through the series or season and then going back in the second episode and working you're way forward again. The first episode established itself pretty well, but when you went backwards in episode 2 (I believe it was) I really got thrown off the narrative and had trouble following some of the reasoning for some elements such as how the mains had met each other, why the orphanage was attacked, and where the villains were actually coming from.

One of my other critiques about the individual dialogue was that for the most part it flowed fairly naturally but occasionally there would be a few things dropped in now and then that made the language sound suddenly more archaic or "fantasy-ish" without and then disappear again. I think also a few modern references (ie. the Shut Up and Sleep with Me joke) are probably something I'd just avoid in future. It's a breaking of the fourth wall that I think falls under my note for tone and pushes the story in another direction more than I think it really needs to go.

Critiques aside, I still really do commend you for writing a story that is fun to follow and really does have me curious to see what happens next. And I have to note I really liked your construction of the magic system, particularly in relation to the hands used and such. I think this was a very original idea and it was neat to hear how you thought it out.


Random other:

Finally, this is just a quick note of my own, but if it's possible at some point in the future to get full episode download links, I think that would help make this series more accessible to new viewers, since it's a bit more hassle to download 5-6 episodes worth of scenes for the ipod. It's not impossible, but it might be convenient as episodes are finished to have the option.


All that aside, thank you for a fun and engaging listen. I'm really glad I did find the time to listen through to this and it's fantastic to find others who have kept up with long projects like this and put the kind of work into you that you have. Looking forward to episode 6 as it comes!

[Zankoku no Yami]

Before I begin; I really do not see any influence from Avatar. And to be fair; this is actually a remake of something I originally wrote back in 6th grade (that had to be 10+ years ago. WAY before Avatar every was imagined). The original idea was about an orphan boy who had the power of wind and eventually gathered all the other elements as well. Once again, this idea was created over a decade ago and I tossed it out because I thought it was crap, haha. But after remaking Samurai'sNEXT with much success, I figured maybe I could take another crappy idea and do the same. So in all honesty, its only real influence is anime; but with a more original twist. I'd say its a combination of what I love in japanese animation and american animation.


Mixing: With rare exceptions (mainly if characters are mumbling) I was really happy to hear that levels sounded very consistent and easy to make out throughout on the vocals. I didn't have to do a lot of volume adjusting (which is great) and the bit I did was normally when characters were either mumbling briefly or Kitsune was yelling for a long stretch XD Sound effects, I have to say did sound rather low quality compared to how good the rest of the mix was, so I was a little disappointed those were consistently on the more hollow side. This was particularly noticeable for me as far as ambiance and footsteps were concerned and is something I would really strongly encourage you to upgrade on, especially given how much is in the VAA library as of the past year or so.You knew where to place them, so I think it would bring up the quality of this production a lot if some of the sounds were clearer and the ambiance easier to make out (there were a few times I thought the ambiance was something different than what it was and I didn't realize I was hearing anything else until a character commented on the surroundings :/). I definitely do have to commend you though for the fight and magical sequences - those are where a lot of people's mixes tend to get very disoriented and your's was VERY refreshingly coherent, which was awesome.

Ironically; I am using every footstep SFX + highquality foot SFX (such as ones from sound ideas, which are SFX that would normally cost in the thousands for) there is. But for some reason, no matter what footstep SFX I use, someone always comments on using the ones in the VAA or higher quality ones. I will never understand how that works...

Outside that, most SFX are lower quality and outdated. I am still exploring my way through the three volumes of sound ideas I have to find higher quality SFX: and even got a number of packs from other members after each episode. It is one thing I am working on vigorously... but sadly, it is really hard to find the exact SFX that would properly visualize what is going on in the scenes... at least as far as a fantasy is considered. And especially in high quality. The one thing that bothers me every time I re-listen to my stuff...


Writing: I have to admit, while overall I really enjoyed the direction and story line of this piece so far, there were definitely some specifics in the writing I'd like to just make note of. I think one of the things in this project that it kind of shoots itself in the foot with - especially in terms of rising up to the next level - is some tone confusion. Basically, there are times when this is very comedic sounding and high energy - especially when Kitsune's character is screaming and being a total tomboy - but then it will suddenly switch to being dark and sombre where she's crying and really aware of the burden of her destiny in the story. Now this something I can see being possible manage gradually, but at the moment it's still jarring whenever we have the switch because it keeps happening at the drop of a dime, and in less of a natural progression of emotion. Listening to it all in a single setting I think this was particularly noticeable and after a while it seemed to get harder to keep up with. I'd really love to see this become something that is gradually built in and out of, or maybe toned back a bit, or even just have one aspect or the other highlighted specifically so that the direction is more clear overall.If there is anything causing a quick change of pace, it is the fact that I shortened the series quite a bit more than I wanted too. See, if I went full head on the first season would be 26 episodes in length. However, what are the chances of something that big getting done? I already cannot get a hold of kitsune (except once or twice in the year) and Okami is getting busier and busier. So I felt it more realistic to shorten the series into 12 episodes. Meaning the episodes are a bit longer than normal; but also the pace of the series is faster. I try to demonstrate realism in comprehending the reality of things; while also keeping the original light hearted tone. The original idea was a 100% fantasy/comedy. It wasnt until around the time I started writing the 2nd episode that things began to take a horrible turn. And in the second season, there is very little comedy... the series takes a huge turn and stays a steady pace of despair and other negative emotions. It all makes sense in the season finale... which I REALLY cannot wait to get too. Its all been written, just needs the VAs. Though I doubt season 2 will really happen, so I am just aiming to complete season 1. The entire thing, however, I plan to go all the way with and hopefully see it become way more than a radioplay.

But there will be lots of switches between comedy and drama in this first season. Especially in later episodes. Though I feel much of it is a bit more ironed out because... well... Esther is no longer acting like a child anymore. So the real drama is the FACTS that become present. Esther doesn't cry over split milk; but that doesnt mean the truth isnt anymore dramatic. Despite that, it will feel more evened because it wont be so 'bi-polar'. No, that is saved for Yulia (who is literally bi-polar. But in a comical way).


Another thing I noticed was that a lot of times I was having trouble following some of the new character introductions as well as the exact details of the quest at times as they were brought up. Part of this I think might have been due to starting midway through the series or season and then going back in the second episode and working you're way forward again. The first episode established itself pretty well, but when you went backwards in episode 2 (I believe it was) I really got thrown off the narrative and had trouble following some of the reasoning for some elements such as how the mains had met each other, why the orphanage was attacked, and where the villains were actually coming from.

One of my other critiques about the individual dialogue was that for the most part it flowed fairly naturally but occasionally there would be a few things dropped in now and then that made the language sound suddenly more archaic or "fantasy-ish" without and then disappear again. I think also a few modern references (ie. the Shut Up and Sleep with Me joke) are probably something I'd just avoid in future. It's a breaking of the fourth wall that I think falls under my note for tone and pushes the story in another direction more than I think it really needs to go.You are really supposed to just reset yourself come episode 2. I basically pulled a 'Fullmetal Alchemist' on you and began the series further in to establish the basics. Because the VERY beginning, the true beginning I should say, is so HORRIBLY cliche that it would normally turn some people off. That is why I wanted to start where I did, then rewind. Basically the next episode, the first half finishes this, and the second half continues where the first episode left off. The reason this works out SO well is because it explains EVERYTHING reguaring Esther and Jay. Thus, making the battle between the two (the battle you didnt see in episode 1) even more dramatic.

And yeah. I actually LOVE breaking the 4th wall. I do it on purpose, haha. I guess it could disturb the overall fantasy feel. But it is something I enjoy putting in there (even more in the game. Especially during tutorials when Esther is like 'wtf is CRAFT and MENU?!' since technically to them, they arent in the game). And I think I include them here and there because once again... this series wasn't supposed to be serious AT ALL. Literally, when I started this series, Allen was JUST a narcoleptic, Esther was schizophrenic... and then we had characters like Cain who despite being 100% good, has terits and his tick is a tendency to narrate the current situation from the bad guys point of view in very sinister monologues. Again, Yulia and her ENTIRE FREAKIN' FAMILY OF WEIRDOs. Which you will see in episode 7. And many more crazy characters (like the crossdressing 5 year old twins, where one is female and the other is male and they always dress the opposite). Despite this though... again... the series takes a twisted turn. The season finale will destroy everything you thought you knew, and will set the theme for the rest of the series.


Finally, this is just a quick note of my own, but if it's possible at some point in the future to get full episode download links, I think that would help make this series more accessible to new viewers, since it's a bit more hassle to download 5-6 episodes worth of scenes for the ipod. It's not impossible, but it might be convenient as episodes are finished to have the option.

Haha, I originally did that. I switched a while back to doing installments instead of full episodes because everyone was getting peeved at having full episodes. They wanted them in bit sizes or they wouldnt listen to them. Something about the ease of downloading (especially because of their sizes). That is why they are the way they are now. Much of what I do is based on previous experiments and critiques. But I am always trying to improve on the current audiences word.


All that aside; thanks for all your critique and words! Do not let my 'explanations' come across as 'excuses' or 'ignoring' anything you had to say. Since some people take it that way; I like to assure people that I am not making excuses, merely explaining what is going on in MY head, haha; that and the reasons behind my actions. Simply put; I appreciate you taking the time to give me such critique.

The series is planned up to 12 episodes, all in which are written and the ONLY thing slowing this series down being two of the leads. One in which is being recast for the second half of episode 6+ Plus the game is going really well, hehe. So you can expect this to be one project I never give up until the end. I hope to continue improving and make this series more and more enjoyable. I will keep all your words in mind as I mix the next episode (which is already causing me SO many problems... UGH...).

And thanks for the review! I always love to know what people are thinking and glad to know SOMEONE is still listening, haha, despite the length between episodes.

[dragonknighttara]

Enormous apologies to not replying to this sooner. I'm trying to get myself back into reviewing stuff after some illness and moving, and just realized I'm a failure and forgot to reply to this. XD

I can definitely appreciate where you're coming from on a lot of your points and don't worry I didn't take it as you writing it off or anything. Actually, I think it's cool to be able to have that kind of dialogue rather than producers who just go "That's nice, thanks!" to longer reviews. And I equally hope I don't sound like a total jerk in any of my points, especially since we're all here to figure out how to improve and help each other along.

Anyway, mostly just wanted to let you know I didn't miss this post and I'm still looking forward to more. I hope production is still going well despite the setbacks!

[Zankoku no Yami]

Enormous apologies to not replying to this sooner. I'm trying to get myself back into reviewing stuff after some illness and moving, and just realized I'm a failure and forgot to reply to this. XD

I can definitely appreciate where you're coming from on a lot of your points and don't worry I didn't take it as you writing it off or anything. Actually, I think it's cool to be able to have that kind of dialogue rather than producers who just go "That's nice, thanks!" to longer reviews. And I equally hope I don't sound like a total jerk in any of my points, especially since we're all here to figure out how to improve and help each other along.

Anyway, mostly just wanted to let you know I didn't miss this post and I'm still looking forward to more. I hope production is still going well despite the setbacks!

No problem!

And no, no! Of course not! I GREATLY appreciate you taking the time to give me your thoughts. I always just like giving a more in depth look at why I did things, etc, etc. Because I feel if people take the time to give me a full review, I can take the time to at least explain certain things or clear up certain things. Its always good to make it more of a DISCUSSION than anything, hehe. Glad I didnt come off that way though! Because I take to heart what people say (but sometimes there are circumstances leading to why things are the way they are. No excuses, of course! Just SOMETIMES there are legitimate reasons, hehe).

Thanks again for your review, though! The critique and criticism is very much appreciated! I can only hope PEOPLE GET ME LINES SOMETIME WITHIN THE NEXT CENTURY so that I can continue it, hehehe. I am hoping maybe I can also utilize some of your critique to help in coming episodes!

[dragonknighttara]

Aww, I hope so too! The actual practicality aside (which I utterly understand) I'd love to see a LOT more of most of the audio dramas on this board... but then again being on the offending end of my own production at this moment I probably should not say much more about that XD