Rising alternative musician Maggie Rogers delivers a captivating effort on her highly-anticipated debut album, ‘Heard It in a Past Life.’

Her time has finally come.  Whose time? Maggie Rogers, the New York University student who caught Pharrell Williams’ attention for her hit record, “Alaska.” After releasing independent projects as well as an EP (Now That the Light is Fading), she drops her highly-anticipated debut album, Heard It in a Past Life.  Notably, highlights “Alaska” and “On + Off” reappear from her 2017 EP.

“Give a Little” 

Maggie Rogers commences Heard It in a Past Life with a bang with highlight ✓ “Give a Little.” From the onset, the groove is driving and absolutely infectious to the nth degree.  Rogers delivers commanding vocals without ever coming close to over-singing – cool, yet also has ample ‘oomph.’ Following up the electrifying opener is a tall task, but Rogers keeps on shining on the strong ✓ “Overnight.” Her vocals continue to shine like a beacon, even if she avoids gospel histrionics.  The best aspect of “Overnight” is the chorus, something Rogers has a knack for throughout Heard It in a Past Life.

“‘Cause people change overnight
Things get strange, but I’m alright
I’m still here, and I’m still high
And I’ll still meet you in the middle of the night
But if you lie to me, lie to me, lie to me
I’m gone.”

Besides the lyrics, the way that vocals and synths are used within the production is another highlight.

“The Knife”

Sleek production work, intact with a sensational groove continues to be the story of  ✓ “The Knife,” the third straight gem from Heard It in a Past Life.  The bass line is on-point, the keyboards sound exquisite, while the backing vocals provide masterful support for Maggie Rogers. One of the crowning achievements of the LP follows with ✓ “Alaska,” the song that brought Rogers to Pharrell Williams’ attention.  It is a unique, alt-pop gem that sounds like nothing else on the airwaves, which is part of the charm.  Furthermore, how many songs are named after Alaska? Very few. The vocals are marvelous on the chorus, among the crème de la crème of Heard It in a Past Life.

“Light On”

✓ “Light On” maintains the consistency of Heard It in a Past Life,” delivering another well-rounded, well-written alt-pop number Once again, the chorus is a major selling point.  On the title track, “Past Life,” Rogers slackens the pace, delivering one of the moodier moments of the the LP.  Even so, she sounds incredibly expressive, magnificently delivering the moody vibes.

One of the very best songs comes by way of the R&B-tinged ✓ “Say It,” which is unlike anything that precedes or follows.  “Say It” is a surefire bop from an initial listen, particularly – wait for it – the chorus.

“I knew it when you looked my way
That I’d be begging you to stay
I couldn’t say it to myself
I couldn’t say it to myself
I felt it burning in the way
I held on when you pulled away
I couldn’t say it to myself
I couldn’t say it to myself
I couldn’t say it
I couldn’t just say it.”

✓ “On + Off” is among the more unique moments from Heard It in a Past Life, finding Maggie Rogers experiment – the true spirit of the ‘alternative.’ The beauty of her vocals continues to be a big-time selling point, particularly the harmonies on the chorus.

The beat is pretty sickening on the major-key “Fallingwater,” where Rogers drops inviting vocals that blend in as a key part of the production.

“Retrograde” 

Heading into the homestretch of the album, “Retrograde” keeps things driving – chocked-full of rhythm. Rogers sounds her best on the powerful chorus, while never over-singing in the least.  Once again, the background vocals, used almost like an instrument within the production, are terrific.  Penultimate number “Burning” is spirited, maintaining a quick tempo. It doesn’t have the same ‘hit quality’ of the most elite cuts from the album, but Rogers continues to shine.  “Back in my Body” is no slow-jam but slackens the pace while maintaining energy.

Final Thoughts 

All in all, Maggie Rogers delivers an intriguing debut album with Heard It in a Past Life.  The songwriting is strong, while the way she uses her voice is nothing short of brilliant.  No, Rogers won’t blow you away with gospel-tinged pipes, but she’s potent thanks to the creative and clever use of her instrument.  Heard iT in a Past Life is a must-hear.

✓ Gems: “Give a Little,” “Overnight,” “The Knife,” “Alaska,” “Light On,” “Say It” & “On + Off”

Maggie Rogers • Heard It in a Past Life • Capitol • Release: 1.18.19

Photo Credit: Capitol