Treewind's album will be welcomed in my bin.

Whether one's recording sounds great to the artist, his friends or his audience is not the topic under discussion. When one submits a CD for review, the only thing that matters is the opinion of the reviewer, unfair asthat may be. No reviewer is all knowing, certainly not this one. But my ear and my experience in the business are my tools, so I calls 'em as I hears 'em.
The main reason for using a professional engineer and producer is having decisions made by someone other than the artist. Even if the artist is a successful producer, obectivity is clouded by ego. The silliest thing, to me, is submitting a CD and wanting constructive criticism in return. The time t seek constructive criticism is before the final mix, not after the release. If I could offer just one suggestion, it would be to have the recording prereviewed by someone with no need to consider the feelings of the artist (a professional recording engineer or producer comes to mind)and listen to what he has to say. Believe me, it will save money and time and your chances of releasing a gem will be enhanced. Their is no magic path to recording success but objective decision making is the best first step. Sure, studios tend to have the best equipment but it is their ears that are their most important assets.
I am glad that so many Mudcatters have sent me CDs and I am gladder that I have been able to introduce the best of them to my readers.