Self-Critique

It is true for pretty much everyone that you're your own worst critic because of this human thing we have where we tend to doubt ourselves, making something as simple as accepting a compliment from someone else seem like such a big deal (unless you know you've done well in which case it's the cliche 'oh shucks, I'm blushing' routine).

For me, I absolutely despise hearing my own voice back because we all have this idea in our head of how we sound however when hearing it back, it sounds completely different. (Quick fun thing to do, if you want to see how you sound like to people really quickly, cup your hands with your palms facing inwards, cover your ears and talk, it's a weird experience).
Without sounding arrogant, I know I can sing, (form your own opinions ladies and gentlemen) however whenever I hear myself back, I do question my ability to be able to hold a tune. Sitting in class and having to hear the piece of music with my vocals on it was quite a surreal experience and although I half zoned out, I think I'm slowly getting used to my voice.

But enough about me and my weirdness, and more about the actual song and what went well and how to improve it
Personally, I focused on what could be improved rather than what went well, but I'll talk about both. I think that the actual message that we were trying to convey got across through the actual lyrics and also in the style of guitar that I recorded. I think that the use of finger picking helped to give the song that softer and more emotional feel to it, which contrasted the strumming of the chords in the bridge which were sharp and loud, showing the piece and the story coming to a climax, and actually breaking free of being trapped. The two main things for me that could have been improved were the actual recording and a harmony. Getting the transition between the verse and the chorus a lot smoother using effects, but that will come with time. Also, having a simple harmony in the chorus would have lifted the piece giving it that 'angelic' effect, something that is quite common in modern day songs that are of a slow tempo.

Just a few other comments about the piece from other people:
"Good rhythm and structure"
"Voice had a unique tone"
"Lyrics and melody reflect the themes and concepts explained"
"It would be nice to explore harmony more"
"Clearer lyrics and change in dynamics"

The main feedback as you can see from the few quotes that I picked, was that it was a well thought out piece and that to give it that extra something else, a harmony would've helped.

And so, there you have it, my first official and formal piece of self-critique without being too harsh on myself (something that as a human being, is quite a challenge). Feel free to form your own opinions on the song (which was in the post before) because I think in this day and age, it's important to express your opinion on something. If you feel that something can be improved, then tell the person. It's all constructive at the end of the day and benefits both the performer and the audience. (Just don't be a Simon Cowell)