Not To Keep

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Listen to tracks at CdBaby

In The Light	MP3	Lyrics
It's Love		Lyrics
Don't Fall Back	MP3
Leonardo's Shimmer	MP3	Lyrics

Reviews
"Honey-voiced Chicagoan makes a strong impression with Not to Keep. And who could resist an album on Hipchick Records? Ms. Rogers shines on the playful "Blind Mistake," and hits a blues groove on "I'll Be Your Heat." But her strongest moment is the big-voiced rocker, "Not to Keep," in which she delivers a high-energy head turner. Countless musicians would like to capture the spark of Not to Keep."
- Cd Shakedown

"A lifelong performer, Rogers got her start in entertainment by acting in her father’s commercials and independent films, later going on to study theater. However, she soon realized music was her ultimate passion. After being diagnosed with thyroid cancer she had an epiphany about playing music. Soon after, she took numerous music classes and created an indie label to release her debut album, Not to Keep, in 2000.

Her first album of original songs, Stephanie Rogers’ Not to Keep is a distinct blend of ballads and up-tempo rock numbers. An adequate introduction to her talent as a songwriter and musician, Not to Keep soothes the listener while at the same time quickly grabs his attention. Rogers begins the 10-track LP with “Leonardo’s Shimmer, ” where her angelic vocals are accompanied by light guitar strumming and fitting percussion. A slow start to the record, her soaring vocals draw the listener in, but often the music overpowers her soft singing style, masking the lyrics.

All this changes on next track, “In the Light.” With fast paced percussion and guitar accompaniment mid-track, the song immediately draws the listener in and it is hard to believe this is the same singer. With more rock and soul, the beat is aggressive and edgy with gritty guitar and heavy hitting percussion. Questioning life, struggles and consequences, “In the Light” demonstrates Rogers’ ability as a songwriter, while her versatility is a welcomed change.

Title track, “Not to Keep," follows suit with familiar vocals. Bringing to mind Sarah McLachlan with her delicate yet powerful singing style, the song impresses. As a result, Rogers continues the high energy of previous track, “In the Light.” “We’ve been holding on to a cause which was lost before begun/In the end we’re all alone,” she sings passionately.

“Blind Mistake” slows things down from the previous up-tempo rock numbers. With a steady drumbeat and keyboard accompaniment, the track puts Rogers’ vocals in the forefront, as they should be. More relaxed, Rogers sings confidently and seems to have found her place within the music. While the aggressive rock tracks showcase her talent, it is on “Blind Mistake” that she seems most at ease with herself. “Don’t Fall Back” follows suit and further demonstrates Rogers’ powerhouse vocals. With slow guitar introducing the song, it is her voice that leaves the biggest impact. Ethereal, she sings with great ease.

The remainder of Not to Keep further demonstrates Rogers’ versatility as a musician. “I’ll Be Your Heat” showcases Rogers’ soulful singing style with a seductive jazz beat, while “Weighing Me Down” brings back her familiar airy vocals, with striking guitar accompaniment. “5 to 9” embodies striking resemblance to Sheryl Crow. With wavering vocals and a distinct edge in her voice, Rogers leaves her mark. This standout track once again shows a different side to the singer-songwriter. One of constant surprises, Rogers’ “Elements” follows suit and slows down the LP. It is easy to hear the yearning in her voice with light strokes of the piano. An incredibly intimate song, the track provides a glimpse into Rogers’ soul. “Love shows the way to fall/But love isn’t love at all, ” she sings passionately. Wearing her heart on her sleeve, the powerful piano accompaniment, and Rogers’ slowed vocals, showcase the pain she feels.

A fitting end to the album, “Out of My Mind” combines the versatility of each of the previous tracks. Heavy hitting percussion and striking keyboard features combine with Rogers’ angelic, yet wailing rock influenced vocals.

While her talent throughout Not to Keep is evident, it is hard to place Rogers into one genre. Certain tracks embody the sensitive singer-songwriter role; meanwhile, others demonstrate a harder rock side. An impressive first release, slight changes to the track list could have made more of an impact. First song on the LP, “Leonardo’s Shimmer” doesn’t showcase Rogers’ fullest potential. Beginning with a more upbeat number like “In the Light” would have grabbed the listener right away and created a bigger buildup, better capturing the listener’s complete attention.
- "Review By Annie Reuter, Rating: 3 stars (out of 5)

"Stephanie writes wistful, stream of conciousness image-packed lyrics, that are held together by the engrossing pop craftsmanship of her songs. You'll see that her pitch-perfect voice is a powerful tool, but she knows when it's more effective as a whisper. There are elements of Sarah, or Tori here, but you'll also hear the Kinks and Joni reflected in the broad musical references. The first time I heard it I just enjoyed the music, she rocks, then she soothes, then she rocks again. It's a great headphone CD; I keep hearing new things, new thoughts, clever intonations. This CD has kept me ineterested and entertained through multiple listenings."
- Review by David Clement