Ask HN: Gradients in UI Design?

I have reviewed a few online resources, and conducted a survey from a few friends who have done UI design and took art/design courses. There seems to be an interesting split, many of my of the users I surveyed using my application enjoy the UI design. On the other hand, many of the designers hate my UI design and say it is horrible. In all honesty, I am not attached either way and just want the best application i can make. That being said, what are some of your opinions? Here is the UI design: http://synaptitude.me/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/brainbeats-app.png The design was tossed together in an afternoon, so feel free to be harsh if you want.