Live Review: Notar @ R Bar

Notar @ R Bar 11-3-10

 

Notar was on fire at the R Bar last week for his ep release show. Blending hip hop and smooth vocals with tight rock instrumentation and solid beats, that is not to be confused for shitty rap rock, Notar provided a fresh musical take on the mundane waters of a played out style. Honestly, the music was far more rocking than what I expected it to be, but it was tight- I was taken back. 

 

On "Stranger," a toned down song with some hot beats, slower rhythms, and clean vocals from Adam Duritz of the Counting Crows. He sings the chorus: "I'm just a stranger in this town, feel like my days are numbered now. When we met I couldn't figure it out but either way I'm lonely now."  Then we got "Alcoholic," an honest song that features some nice guitar parts. The song is intense and heavy. The raps over the clean vocals are nicely done. Though not at the show, it's cool to note that ep closer "Reach" features Chris Carrabba of Dashboard Confessionals. It was good to see the energy between Notar, the musicians, and Adam. 

 

The way they looked at each and performed together was cool. The show ended with some freestyle by Notar, Adam D, and illSpokinn. I didn't think this was taste, but I was wrong. This guy puts on a good show, for real. You'll be bouncing along to the music in no time.