I’ll say upfront that Sylva album has favored status for me. The things I like about “The Curtain” specifically and chronologically are:
In general I find it to be one of Snarky Puppy’s more melodic instrumental tunes.
The flugel horn solo in the beginning is sweet and tasteful
Rhythmic and melodic themes carry through the piece
Michael League’s bass under the flugel horn is very expressive. His bass solo is unique and has a cool sound.
There is an evolution of mood over the piece that, to me, is purposeful and effective
The Moog parts blend well and Cory’s solo is actually quite good for a mouse noodler. Rare actually for mice on synth parts. I particularly like how he peaks as the band reenters. (Try generating your own Moog solo for that spot).
The piano solo gets me in the feels every time- one of those just right kind of solos. Nice how the bass guitar slides in and then the Moog parts weaving in the background. Eventually the Moogs help bring the solo to an end. The long pause after the piano solo is like catching your breath.
The orchestral ending, again, to me, is just right and I’m left taking some time after the song to think and breathe.
So, I get it. Don’t expect everyone else to react the same way.
I think it would be a really hard tune to solo on, blending in to the whole while shining some yourself.