I really, really like this entry, I have a lot to say about it.
There is a real understanding of time signatures in this entry, as showcased by the other comments. However, while it could've felt very "gimmicky" and "one note", it doesn't, and I think I know why
I think the best example is "The golden hour", which is in 6/4. Instead of going 1 2 3 1 2 3 like a lot of 6/4 songs tend to do, it instead goes 1 2 3 4 1 2, which actually makes it feel like you've added 2 more beats to a 4/4 songs, instead of just re-hashing 3/2.
Even the more chaotic "Soup of Sun" can be counted as 1 2 3 4 1 2 3, this stays consistent throughout the whole soundtrack. Every musical phrase in Ocean of Star can be counted as 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 instead of just 2 4/4. It IS actually in 8/8.
Like the time advancing as the the night goes on, so does the time signature, in a very satisfying way.
This all might seem basic at first, but then you actually listen to the soundtrack and realise that every song a banger. The instrumentation is perfectly chosen, fits both quick, energitic moments and mellow, down tempo melodies. And while every song uses same-ish instruments, they all feel distinct because of the differences in mood, feel, tempo and the drums. The drums I think were a real highlight for me, I really liked them, They all feel so personal.
My favourite is defo Soup of Sun, it's just such a great melody... It really feels like a representation for the everlasting sun, as it rests for the night. I don't have much to say apart from how much I like it lol
Second favourite is Ocean of Stars, when the night ends and the day begins. The song is the slowest of the album, but it also has the most impact I feel. It feels like a truly somber, but pleasant end to a dream. Reading the composer note about existential conversations that can be had at that time rang very true to me.
My third favourite is Date Plans, it's bouncy and upbeat, which you might think wouldn't fit for a Summer Night setting, but what is more energizing than being awake at a time most people are asleep? Feeling like you're doing something you're not supposed to? Even then, it's not all upbeat, the hints of melancholy present in each track is heard here, as it can feel lonely at night, even with others by your side.
One thing I really really like about this soundtrack is the subtle, main leitmotif. It's so expertly put into each song, I didn't even notice it at first... And then I relistened... And I did. Every song uses the leitmotif in a different way depending on its feel. It can feel happy, sad, hopeful, melancholic, all of the above at the same time.... And the synth that plays is sooooo good.
There is only one negative thing I have to say about this album, and it will not impact my rating, but I just had to get it out.... WHY DOES THROUGH DEATH VALLEY HAS A BPM WITH DECIMALS?? WHY CAN'T IT BE A PERFECT WHOLE NUMBER AHHHHHHH (I know it's because of the temprature thing, pretty clever, BUT STILLLLLLLL)
Overall, I can't believe I can just listen to this for free online. I love this one a lot. Tremendous job, MistaLOD, I'll be checking out your stuff. I'll also be leaving this as a general comment under the itch post so people know just how cool this is lol