Return for Christmas song (my first TAXI submission)

[BrianCullen]

Hi folks,

Looking for suggestions on style.

This was my first TAXI submission:
https://www.taxi.com/members/BdtP2CwHS2 ... most-home-
It was for INDIE SINGER/SONGWRITER CHRISTMAS SONGS (https://www.taxi.com/listings/S231017HM)

The feedback was:
"I dig the intricate acoustic pulse and percussion you bring with this one as well as the soulful vocal performance.... However, this does lean a bit more towards the vintage folk side of the spectrum and could benefit from a slightly more mainstream indie singer songwriter pulse to better align here."

I think the reviewer is correct indeed.
Any suggestions for changes in the style to make it more suitable for more mainstream indie singer songwriter?

Many thanks,
Brian Cullen

[cowriter]

Hey Brian, I think there are a few little things that add up to a rejection in the end.
For my taste the following things could be improved:

1. In some places the intonation of the voice should be corrected.
2. A little more variety in the instrumentation
3. The arrangement could use a bit more groove and a little pop vibe.
4. The chorus could be more recognizable and have a bit more "sing-along" quality. That's why I wouldn't introduce the backing vocals for the first time in the last verse, but before that in one or even all of the choruses.
5. The mix doesn't quite come close to "broadcast quality" yet. E.g. the lead vocals are not in the middle of the stereo field.

I don't know how detailed the screener's feedback was, but he probably noticed some of these points too.

Best,
Andy