Sounds like a good ritual, but make sure the cut points line up exactly on the beat—any off‑beat will break the symmetry. If you add a twist, give it its own clear sub‑phrase so the listener can anticipate it. Keep a reference track to compare the before and after, and don’t hesitate to re‑trim until the transition feels inevitable. Good luck.

Glad you’re lining it up methodically—just remember the tiniest offset can throw the whole symmetry off. Keep a clean checklist of each edit, and you’ll see the punch land exactly where it belongs. Happy sharpening.