YARA - Tonight Tonight

YARA is one of the hottest bands in the country right now.  Tonight Tonight was released just over a week ago, and is being received with praise from critics everywhere.  You can download the song for FREE by simply subscribing to their e-mail list! I will provide information on how to do that below.  

YARA is based out of Charlotte, North Carolina and is by far the most desired band by local music venues.  Their countless performances have helped spread their name.  However, the reason for their success is due to the many incredible talents within the band.  The band members include Jameilyara Moore, Daniel Quisol, Joseph Quisol, Sharad Wertheimer, Walker Smith, Evan Zemaitis, and Luther Samuel Allision.  

Jameilyara's one of a kind songwriting flourishes around the indie-rock sounds produced by fellow band members.  Even so, YARA is not your average local rock band.  They include elements of jazz, pop, reggae, and alternative music to create their own distinctive sound that is absolutely irresistible.

Tonight Tonight is the perfect song to introduce yourself to the band.  You better get used to these guys, as I'm sure you'll be hearing a lot more about them in the near future.

Download Instructions:

Click on this link:

www.facebook.com/yaratheband/app_100265896690345

Subscribe to their email list, and you will receive a link to download 'Tonight Tonight' for FREE!!

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Difficulties With the New Layout

I'm sure you are all aware of the recent changes that have been made to takingnotesmusic.org.  Unfortunately, we are experiencing many problems as of now.  At this point, the only way to access the site is by manually typing our old URL of 'takingnotesmusic.blogspot.com'.  Complications don't end there.  Many articles have disappeared, making it look like we have been inactive since last year.  You all know that this is untrue.  Hopefully these problems will be resolved in the next few days.  We ask for you patience while we work out these problems.

Email us any problems you have while browsing Taking Notes, and we will be sure to address them.  I am incredibly frustrated by these difficulties. ~ DWilliams

takingnotesmusic@gmail.com

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Mixtape Monday

The G.A.M.E - OKE (Operation: Kill Everything)

Intern Spotlight

"The Taking Notes Music website has been quite dormant lately, and we are working to change that.  I am aware of the large following the site receives and this place is the only reason we have been able to accomplish so much more in the past few months.  I will provide more details on my recent work and why I have had to put the website on the back burner.  While I focus on other opportunities, I am putting together a small team of writers that may be able to keep this place alive.  If I am able to find a few people to regularly contribute to the site, I'm sure I'll begin to write more.  I am relying on all of  TNMR's followers to separate the good applicants from the bad.  I really want the tone of TNMR to stay the same.  This should provide even greater variety as each writer will focus on a different style of music.  More on that later..... Now, let's welcome our first new contributor, Jon Garst"

~David Williams

THIS COLUMN CONTAINS EXPLICIT LANGUAGE

Welcome, TNMR… to the new rap column. I am excited to finally provide some variety on TNM, and I feel that my rap column is going to benefit the website extensively. Now for the review!

In my opinion, The G.A.M.E. is one of the most underrated artists in the genre. After his 2005 debut with The Documentary, and the impressive follow up, Doctors Advocate (2006), The G.A.M.E took time off, and left us looking for more. However, after an ugly breakup from Aftermath Records, The G.A.M.E. released ‘The R.E.D. Album’ in late 2011 which was accompanied by modern legends, Tyler the Creator and Kendrick Lamar.  This led to the production of another excellent album.  This released was also followed by a brief period of silence and avoiding the public eye.  Finally, in 2012, G.A.M.E. gave us the 15-track masterpiece,  ‘Jesus Piece’ , headlined by the single, ‘Ali Bomaye’ which features Rick Ross and 2 Chainz. After last years great success, he has been hart at work in the studio and has just supplied us some new material! Now, we have some new tracks to dive into with O.K.E. (Operation Kill Everything).

The G.A.M.E. finds an impressive balance of his usual, gangster rap style, but also saves a place for a few soulful, deep songs that show the side of him that I love so much.  However, his latest release isn’t always enjoyable.

This mixtape has its ups and downs and begins with ‘Kill Everything’ featuring Diddy.  The first line that The G.A.M.E. spits on this record is an essential one, a remark to his now ex-girlfriend Tiffney Cambridge. 

“Operation kill everything; kill everything, 

married to myself f**k a wedding ring, 

tried that s**t twice, 

gave that girl everything”

The G.A.M.E. puts together some very impressive beats on ‘Life Is But A Dream’, ‘Astronaut P***y’,  ‘F.I.V.E.’, and ‘T.D.’ throught the mixtape, which was released just last week. The second track, is my personal favorite, titled ‘Life Is But A Dream’.  He uses a sound-byte from a speech by Martin Luther King Jr. to set a surprisingly surreal mood to what is one of the best songs on the record. G.A.M.E uses the help of Elijah Blake to move this track onto superior ground, giving it fantastic beat and showing gentle side that brings out the best in his music. Blake was also featured on G.A.M.E’s previous album, on the song titled, ‘Freedom’.  As many longtime TNMR readers may be unfamiliar with this genre, the beat to a rap song is just as important as a guitar solo is to an old rock song.

Continuing on… Just as he did on ‘Jesus Piece’, G.A.M.E. proclaims himself to be one of the best rappers of all-time, and lays down lines comparing himself to established legends, like Tupac and Nas. However, he also declares his fellow Compton native, Kendrick Lamar, as the next king of the game on both ‘Life Is But A Dream’, and ‘Oh Lord”. The ending of the jarring ‘Life Is But A Dream’ directly shows this comparison.

“I hold my niggas down.

Yah, I hold my niggas down… 

And when I go out, 

this is Kendrick’s crown”

On the other hand, there were some tracks that were not as impressive. Headlining that list would have to be ‘Same Hoes”, “Swerve”, and “Super Throwed”. These are solely a desperate attempt to get his music into the clubs, but they end up falling awkwardly between west-coast rap and dance music. Another disappointment was Nipsey Hussle’s verses on ‘Same Hoes’, diminishing the track to just a quick club beat. 

To those very few duds, there were many hits to headline this above average mixtape. The balance was optimized by ‘Life Is But A Dream’, ‘In The City’, ‘Love On Fire’, and ‘Breakfast With Al Pacino’. These tracks took the mixtape from just average to a potential megahit, and will generate some much deserved hype for The G.A.M.E.

What’s next from G.A.M.E? I surely am hoping for more of this type of variety. I am very excited to see what this guy will be up to next, as I am yet to be disappointed by him. We have heard that he is already working on his sixth studio album, to be released under the record label, YMCMB, who recently signed The G.A.M.E. Whatever it may be, I can’t wait to see if The G.A.M.E. can continue that difficult climb up to the top.

Authors Rating: 4/5 Stars

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Justin Timberlake - Take Back The Night

Justin Timberlake channels his inner Michael Jackson in his latest single, 'Take Back The Night'.  He also confirmed that Part 2 of his album 'The 20/20 Experience' will be released this fall.  This is the second song featuring 'JT and the Tennessee Kids'.  The first being 'That Girl', which was released on 'Part 1'.  The single is already getting played on radio stations across the country.

Enjoy :)

Don't Have Spotify?? Watch it Here

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Joy Division - Disorder

Today's song of the day is Disorder by Joy Division.  Joy Division is an English rock band that formed in 1976.  The band's unique sound has been described as "fairly undistinguished punk-inflected hard-rock".  Joy Division's success was cut short by the 1980 death of troubled singer, Ian Curtis.  Curtis suffered from severe depression along with personal issues that included a dissipating marriage.  He was also diagnosed with epilepsy, which made it very to perform live, as he would often have seizures while on stage.  He committed suicide on May 18, 1980.  His personal difficulties are the root of the darkness behind the music of Joy Division.  This piece of music is not for everyone, but it is brilliant nevertheless.  The band's highest charting song, "Love Will Tear Us Apart",  was released posthumously in June 1980.  Joy Division's two albums were released with immense critical acclaim.  After Curtis' death, the three remaining members created the band, New Order.

Lyrics

I've been waiting for a guide to come and take me by the hand, 

Could these sensations make me feel the pleasures of a normal man? 

These sensations barely interest me for another day, 

I've got the spirit, lose the feeling, take the shock away. 

It's getting faster, moving faster now, it's getting out of hand, 

On the tenth floor, down the back stairs, it's a no man's land, 

Lights are flashing, cars are crashing, getting frequent now, 

I've got the spirit, lose the feeling, let it out somehow. 

What means to you, what means to me, and we will meet again, 

I'm watching you, I'm watching her, I'll take no pity from you friends,

Who is right, who can tell, and who gives a damn right now, 

Until the spirit new sensation takes hold, then you know, 

Until the spirit new sensation takes hold, then you know, 

Until the spirit new sensation takes hold, then you know, 

I've got the spirit, but lose the feeling, 

I've got the spirit, but lose the feeling, 

Feeling, feeling, feeling, feeling, feeling, feeling, feeling.

Listen to 'Disorder'

Watch Joy Division Perform 'She's Lost Control' Live

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Chelsea Mitchell - "Married in the Aviary"

The debut EP from Philadelphia native Chelsea Mitchell was released last Tuesday, June 4, 2013.  Mitchell emerged on the Philadelphia music scene nearly a decade ago.  Her style is one that cannot be easily defined.  Her music has an honest, folksy quality that is hard to come by in today's music scene.  Personally, I have always loved artists like Woody Guthrie and Bob Dylan, who are the epitome of the folk genre.  However, Chelsea Mitchell does not resemble either of these musicians.  She is in a league of her own.

Joni Mitchell + Neil Young + Joan Baez = Chelsea Mitchell

The best way to put her style into words  is a mix between Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, and Joan Baez.  Despite that, there are still qualities that are only unique to this album.  Imagine Joni Mitchell playing a ukelele.  That may be a better description.  I think that Mitchell will eventually receive acclaim on a national scale, because you can't deny the immense talent she has.  

Her advanced methods of making music are apparent throughout the EP, and are impacted by her classical background.  Mitchell once trained to become a singer in the opera, allowing her to communicate with listeners in a way most mainstream singers cannot.  Unlike most albums, her songs do not flow together in an intentional fashion.  Each song creates a distinctive listening experience.  I found this to be very refreshing, as it is a testament to her unique musical style.

The first song on the record, "The Chapel", is a hauntingly beautiful instrumental piece that is so intriguing, it practically forces you to want to listen to the rest of the record.  The title track, "Married in the Aviary", is the standout song on the album.  It features every characteristic that makes Chelsea Mitchell great.  From her honest, moving lyrics, to the ukelele that I love so much; it's all there.  

Her folk influence is apparent throughout the entire EP, by the use of purely acoustic instruments and powerful, meaningful lyrics.  Mitchell's ability to show variety within her own unique genre is a feat of brilliance.  This EP has a refreshing feeling of musical bliss as her sound is like nothing I have ever heard before.  I ask all of you to please listen to this short EP because it is a remarkable musical accomplishment.  

Top Tracks from "Married in the Aviary"

1) Married in the Aviary

2) Nobody's Daughter

3) Don't Be in Love With Me

I can't end the review without mentioning Peter Joseph, the playing partner of Chelsea Mitchell who accompanies her during live performances by playing a wide variety of instruments.  Playing instruments like the banjo, melodica, and guitar, he has played an important role in the current rise of Mitchell's success.

Listen to "Married in the Aviary"

Click Here to Like Chelsea Mitchell on Facebook

Other Chelsea Mitchell Songs:

Learn how to get your music heard at ReverbNation.com

Click Here to Like 'Taking Notes' on Facebook

As you can see, it doesn't take much for Chelsea Mitchell to show off her extraordinary talent

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The Rise and Fall of Taking Notes Music Reviews

~ "A man is not finished when he is defeated.  He is finished when he quits." ~

As I'm sure you have all noticed, there has not been any type of content published here in nearly 2 months.  However, we are completely prepared to make up for that lost time throughout the summer.  There are certain subjects I can't go into much detail about, but I would like to explain to you all why we had to take an extended hiatus.  I'm sure you have heard the rumored legal complications of the Taking Notes Music Tour, and our extreme difficulties with Passion Pit.  Other reasons include my work with people outside of the writing aspect of this occupation.  I am currently the only registered employee at Taking Notes, and it has been difficult finding a writing staff that will please all of you.  I learned how picky you can be in March during the famed "LFriday Incident".  

The Taking Notes Music Tour put a lot of pressure on us, and the expectations were something that we just could not live up to.  Fortunately, the rest of the Tour should continue on schedule.  I will upload an updated schedule shortly, because the original timetable is now completely inaccurate.  

Our merchandise store is still set to launch shortly, so stay tuned for more news regarding that.  Are there any albums or songs you would like to see me review in the next few weeks? Let me know in the comment section below! 

Thanks again to all of the devoted fans of TNMR.  We have continued to maintain a strong amount of viewers even during this long break, and I am very appreciative of all of your support. --DW

Get Ready....I'm Back

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David Essex - Rock On

Rock On is a song that was written and performed by English rocker, David Essex.  It served as the title track for his 1973 debut album.  Rock On is the most famous song by Essex, topping many charts in 1973.  The song reached number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, while topping the charts on both the Canadian and UK singles charts.  Also in 1973, Rock On was featured in the film, That'll Be The Day, in which David Essex played the lead role.  The song is extremely popular, and is still played frequently on Classic Rock radio stations throughout the country.

The lyrics to the song is one of the main reasons why this song has been admired so much.  Essex pays homage to the significance of early rock and roll and the rebellious youth that followed.  Specifically, he frequently makes references to the ultimate rebel of the 1950s, James Dean.  The musical aspects of this song are exceptionally unique as well.  It features a slow paced vocal performance that is backed predominantly by a bass-driven accompaniment.  A powerful string section and an occasional blast from the horn section make this the quintessential song of nostalgia.  Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the music.

Lyrics:

Ooh
Hey, kids, rock 'n' roll, rock on
Ooh, my soul
Hey kids, boogie, too, did ya?
Hey, shout, summertime blues
Jump up and down in the blue suede shoes
Hey, kids, rock 'n' roll, rock on
And where do we go from here?
Which is a way that's clear?
Still looking for that blue jean baby queen
Prettiest girl I've ever seen
See her shake on the movie screen, Jimmy Dean
(James Dean)
And where do we go from here?
Which is the way that's clear?
Still looking for that blue jean baby queen
Prettiest girl I ever seen
See her shake on the movie screen, Jimmy Dean
Jimmy Dean
Rock on
Rock on
Rock on
Hey, kids, rock 'n' roll, rock on
Rock on
Hey, kids, rock 'n' roll, rock on
Rock on
Hey, kids, rock 'n' roll, rock on
Rock on
Hey, kids, rock 'n' roll, rock on
Rock on
Hey, kids, rock 'n' roll, rock on
Rock on
Hey, kids, rock 'n' roll, rock on

Listen to "Rock On" on Spotify:

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The Taking Notes Music Tour:  Day 2

Before we get started, I AM aware that we are starting out of order.  If you checked the schedule for The Taking Notes Music Tour, you may have noticed that the first show was on Friday, March 22, with Taylor Swift.  That concert went incredibly well, and we will write about it very soon.  However, Passion Pit is fresh on our minds and we decided to write this article first.

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There is so much we want to share about this fantastic show.  This concert was held at the very small, Davidson College.  Davidson, North Carolina is a town of just 11,000.  In such a small town, you may be wondering where they held this event.  Belk Arena is the home to the Davidson College basketball team.  This venue is not used to managing large crowds or holding concerts.  Before the concert began, we experienced some difficulties with an uneducated Davidson College Event Staff.  However, once we were allowed inside and the opening act started to perform, everything went smoothly.  

The opening act for Passion Pit's concert in Davidson was We Barbarians.  If you aren't familiar with the work done by We Barbarians, you should.  Their most recognized song is their single, Chambray. At the show, they announced that they will have a new EP release in "Early Summer".  Their set was fairly short, lasting about 20 minutes. 

There was a short 10 minute break between the end of the performance by We Barbarians and the start of the headliner, Passion Pit.  At this point, the small arena really began to fill up and crowd with people.  As a member of the Press, I was able to get around the arena with ease.  The small venue was not even close to selling out.  There were plenty of empty seats around the outside, with plenty of space available on the floor. I spent the majority of my time on the floor, where I could fully experience the emotions the band poured out on the spectators.

The concert was really fantastic.  For such a great band to play for such a small crowd was unsettling to me at first.  I didn't know how the band would be able to control this little, seemingly quiet crowd.  I was completely mistaken.  Passion Pit was able to electrify the crowd with ease and had the entire crowd (including me!) jumping and singing along with the music.  Before the concert in Davidson, I was a small Passion Pit fan.  I knew more than just Take a Walk but I hadn't gone into too much depth, when listening to their albums.  For the 72 hours following the concert, I listened to nothing but Passion Pit. The way the band was able to electrify the crowd was phenomenal.  Lead singer, Michael Angelakos, took no time getting the show started with Gossamer track, I'll Be Alright. They continuously switched between playing songs from their debut album, Manners, and their latest album from 2012, Gossamer.  They ended their set with Sleepyhead, which was the song that allowed for Michael to make a name for himself. This had the crowd going crazy, after another thrilling performance.  Honestly, there was never a lack of energy in that building.  A large part of this was the way the setlist was put together.  It was really fantastic.  Here is a copy of the complete setlist:  

Ultimately, it was one of the best concerts I've been to in a long time.  Most performers of this genre struggle to bring the same sound to the live stage.  Passion Pit definitely did not have that problem.  They played just as good, if not better than the recordings.  Angelakos' vocal ability proved to be extraordinary.  If I ever have the opportunity to see them perform live again, I will definitely go.  If you see that Passion Pit is coming to a city near you, I definitely recommend that you do your best to be there. I can guarantee that you will have a good time.  It was a great show, and I am glad that they decided tothe show, to give you some unique insight into the Passion Pit Concert at Belk Arena in Davidson, North Carolina.  I hope you enjoyed our first edition of The Taking Notes Music Tour; if you h be a part of The Taking Notes Music Tour.  Below I have included a number of pictures and videos from ave any suggestions for how we should write these reviews in the future, please tell us in the comment section below!

Davidson College Event Gallery:
CLICK TO ENLARGE

Listen to the Songs From the Setlist on Spotify!

Listen to More 'Passion Pit'

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More Videos From the Passion Pit Show in Davidson:
(Not Associated With Taking Notes Music)

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How Did You Hear About Taking Notes?

Our recent announcement of The Taking Notes Music Tour has sparked some curiosity amongst the Taking Notes team.  Yesterday's post is on pace to be our most popular article of all time!  We also received a lot of feedback from our viewers.  With the website reaching nearly 200,000 views since October, we are very curious as to how we have been able to grow so quickly.  There will be a poll on the right hand side of your screen with some of the more popular responses.  If your answer is not listed in our poll, or if you just want to share your story about TakingNotes, please share in the comment section below!  I really love reading all of the comments from our readers and am so glad that we are reaching out to so many people.  We are working extremely hard here at TNMR and are so glad that you are all so grateful.

Thank you all so much!

POLL

Select As Many As Needed

1) We Contacted You Personally

2) Social Network

3) Search Engine

4) Forum or Other Blog

5) Recommended by a Friend

6) Press Coverage

7) Other

**Vote in the Poll on the Right Side of Your Screen!! --------------------------> **

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