Mix feedback for a forwarded song

[WSAO]

Hi folks,

I received a forward for a song, but the screener suggested some tweaks to the mix in his feedback.
Could you guys offer some insights on where the mix might need improvement?
Song:
https://www.taxi.com/members/WJQg0yIBTr ... -i-like-it
Feedback:
What I like most about this song
Fun Pop tune with funky grooves and elements f R&B and Retro flavor. I like the vocals. Nice movement and development.
I think you could improve this song by
Tweak the mix. It's a bit hot and could cause issues with QC. Some of the transitions could be a bit smoother. However, overall it works. So I have forwarded.
I returned or forwarded this song because
Nice option along the lines with the examples.

Listing: S241019DP
Lots of FRESH, FUNKY POP SONGS with Male or Female vocals

Thanks!

[telefunkin]

Hi, that's a great track and its a shame it wasn't I'm glad it was forwarded. I'm not sure what triggered the screener but here's a few thoughts in the hope that they help....

The comment about the level being 'hot' seems a bit of a 'nit pick' because its an easy fix if a library preferred it a little lower, although the screener might have heard the 'grit' at 1m and 3:15 (for example) where the sound is a little clipped (deliberately or otherwise).

On transitions, I hear the one at 2:38 as a bit of an abrupt change, and if I was to get really picky I might say that the vocal phrasing at 1:45 doesn't sit perfectly with the pushed stop (although it doesn't offend me).

My own choice for a mix tweak would be to control the main high vocal part just a hint so it sits more within the track. Again though, its small stuff and personal choice.

Overall, I'd be proud of the track though and I'm sure it'll get picked up sooner or later, so I wish you good luck with it.

[WSAO]

Thank you so much for the feedback!
The song was forwarded, but his comments got me a bit concerned.
As you mentioned, if it's just the "too hot" issue in terms of volume and EQ, the publisher can easily adjust the levels, brightness, bass, etc.

Regarding the areas you pointed out, maybe adding a bit more de-essing to the vocals or creating a less bright master might resolve everything. I also submitted this track for another listing, so it’ll be interesting to see what feedback the other screener provides.

Thanks again, mate. I really appreciate it!

[douglasricketts]

if it's just the "too hot" issue in terms of volume and EQ, the publisher can easily adjust the levels, brightness, bass

What is this track peaking at? Based on my experience anything more than -1 dB and it's going to clip on some devices/playback systems which will be detrimental to potential listeners. I love the track, it's fun.

[WSAO]

Thanks mate,
Level in Lufs:
integrated: -9 LUFS
I have songs forwarded a bit louder than this, so not sure if the screener is referring to the volume or EQ...