I prefer the 'metallic' skin, myself - although it doesn't really look too much like metal to me.
I think the key is to use fewer, less-saturated colors for the main interface, and brighter, saturated colors for the 'important' bits. This is basically what you've done with the metallic skin, which is why I prefer it.
I'd also ditch the font you're using on the buttons as it's not easy to read. I had to stare at the 'options' button for about 5 seconds before I realized what it said. :P
I think the key is to use fewer, less-saturated colors for the main interface, and brighter, saturated colors for the 'important' bits. This is basically what you've done with the metallic skin, which is why I prefer it.
I'd also ditch the font you're using on the buttons as it's not easy to read. I had to stare at the 'options' button for about 5 seconds before I realized what it said. :P