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"Heartwood", the title of Amanda Rogers 6th solo record release, is an impressive follow-up to her 2005 e.p. release, "Something Borrowed, Something Blue". After spending 2 years on the road in a veg-powered r.v., writing and performing with a rock n' roll band, her new found poise and confidence is very much apparent on this latest record. "Heartwood" is a polished and yet raw recording showcasing Roger's skills as a clever lyricist, versatile songwriter, and impassioned songstress.
"Stepping outside of myself and taking a good look at the me that others see has been the best way to keep an interesting perspective on the world and how i strangely fit into it," says Amanda when asked about her lyrics and stories. "i was never fully prepared for where the last 3 years were going to take me, but musically, i can feel that the songs now come from my guts instead of my head and heart... and that is such a cool feeling that i wouldn't ever change that path for fear that i may never experience this now again."
Armed with 40 new songs, her keyboard, van, and best friend, Amanda trekked across the U.S. to team-up with producer friend Warren Huart (The Fray, Howie Day, Anna Nalick, Augustana) who found Dan Rothchild (Tonic, Better than ezra, Fiona Apple, Beck, and Shakira) to co-produce and play bass. They were then accompanied by David Levita (Alanis Morissette, Jewel) on guitar and Travis Mcnabb ( Better Than Ezra) on drums. This fantastic five laid down the tracks using a live organic approach and the musicianship and camaraderie is felt throughout the whole record. Jay clifford (Jump Little Children) was later brought in for string arrangements with his own wonderful team of string players to add some finishing touches. "Heartwood" was mixed by Mark Needham (The Killers, Fleetwood Mac, My Chemical Romance). From song and voice to arrangement and production, you hear every thoughtful nuance of each note and feel the excitement and magic that was felt by all who took part.
This album reveals Amanda's continued growth as an artist... where she used to sing as if it were only meant for one listener, with these songs it sounds as if she means for the whole world to hear it. "Heartwood" is a record you listen to from start to finish and by the end you are left satisfied and smiling. Amanda will be touring through many countries in Europe and the U.S. throughout 2008 doing solo tours as well as tours with her full band.
- expect candy
Discography
1999: here &nowhere
2002: the grant session ep
2003: the places you dwell
2004: daily news
2005: something borrowed, something blue ep
2007: good morning heartwood ep
2008: heartwood
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Bio
Since the late 1990's, upstate New York native Amanda Rogers has opened for some of the most acclaimed rock, emo, and jam bands in the industry. With her classical background, love for blues and pop, and admiration for the local hardcore/indie music scene, Amanda was mixing things up and catching the attenion of many concertgoers around the northeast. After self-releasing several recordings, in 2003 Amanda released her album The Places You Dwell with Immigrant Sun Records, and began to experience an even faster growing interest in her music. Amanda then toured the U.S. and Europe, headlining clubs and indie venues herself, and went on to record her next album Daily News. After the release of Daily News she went back to Europe later that year, with a massive growth in attendance within just a couple of months
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Since then, Amanda Rogers has released an EP containing new songs and breathtaking covers of songs by Radiohead and At The Drive-In, played numerous shows in the States and two more tours in Europe. In 2008, she headlined another European tour with friends "The Sketchy Indians" backing her up in support of her highly anticipated album Heartwood. You can expect to hear a lot more from this amazing artist state-side this fall as she hits the road with Heartwood.
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