“Note to self”, the new project from Mr Cliffnote comes to us with the top notch graphic we come to expect from the multi talented artist.

The neatly-packaged eight-track album quickly touches on his affinity for
battle-style lyrics, but also his personal love for music, memories of family, and
nearly every emcee’s favorite topic: women.
Setting the early tone are back-to-back soul tinged tracks, produced by Crate
Digga. Both joints (“Godspeed” and “The Dirty Bomb”) introduce you to Mr.
Cliffnote’s ability to pen in your face lyrics with precise delivery. On the latter track,
he opens the second verse with, “This is your last chance/Save The Last Dance for
the last man standin’ in the avalanche, who never broke his battle stance”. Even in
album mode, he clearly doesn’t forget his roots in the battle circuit, which can be a
challenge for many emcees in general… but he makes the transition seamlessly.
The middle of the album moves on to some of the comedic but realistic side of
love with, “Hello Nurse”, thoughts of yesteryears on “The Melody”, clever
metaphoric phrasing of “Visit The D”, and an absolute radio ready DJ Dez produced
track entitled “When We’re Together”, putting Cliff’s vocal stylings on display.
However, the standouts of the album come at the end with the introspective “Live
On”, featuring Pierre Anthony (closing your eyes while listening to this song is
recommended) and the politically charged “Gunz”. A video for this track is
mandatory and it’s easily one of the most important songs in hip hop this entire year.
Most familiar with Mr. Cliffnote remember him giving verbal beatdowns to
opponents at open mics for years. But “Note To Self” isn’t just a play on this
Detroit-based emcee’s name. It’s also a reminder for the listener to take “notes” on
the mark he’s continuing to make on the genre and his motivation to push it forward.