Elena Rogers’ Prelude to Whatever

Listening to an Elena Rogers song is like watching a Tim Burton film. The style is instantly familiar and yet you know you’re about to encounter an unexpected turn just around the corner. Lyrically clever and deceptively complex in its time signature and tempo changes, her new album entitled Prelude to Whatever takes risks while remaining radio friendly in nature. 

In fact, one of the album’s early singles is a shoe in for end of the year “best of” lists. One cannot help but move to the rollicking, bubblegum fun of “Queen”. Listen to “A Life in a Day” and the instrumental “In the Meantime” and you’ll immediately be reminded of Danny Elfman’s work. 

Sound of Music on Drugs

The keyboard driven “Goodbye Neighbor” features a keen sense of humor, wonderfully placed horns, tasty keyboard licks and elements of chamber pop. “Mercy Mountain” is The Sound of Music on drugs. But the track that absolutely slays me is “I Don’t”. This uptempo jaunt with conversational, rapid-fire vocals and numerous musical twists and turns is nothing short of an alt-pop joy ride.

For those who have yet to hear Elena’s music (this is her second full length album), her tunes make you think of They Might Be Giants, Oingo Boingo, Frank Zappa or Kate Bush. Drawing inspiration from those kinds of sources, it’s no wonder that her sound is evolving so rapidly. And with Jamie Hoover providing his innovative production sensibilities, the sky’s the limit.

“Prelude to Whatever” is just the start. But It’s a record you don’t wanna miss. 

Get Elena Rogers’ Prelude to Whatever

Elena Rogers’ new one, Prelude to Whatever, officially releases on June 7. You can get your copy at her Bandcamp page, Apple Music and anywhere fine music is sold.