Guest Writer Chris DeFlitch saw Maggie Rogers last night and now I think he's in love
Maggie Rogers, copyright Dylan Eddinger Photography
Sporting a jumpsuit fit for Mother Earth herself, Maggie Rogers took the stage for the first time in over 10 months. Showing the world why she is an unstoppable force against all movable objects, the Maryland 20-something debuted a slew of new tracks, intertwined cohesively with her heart-filling staples.
Before the main festivities began, the sprightly Union Transfer crowd was blessed with the stylings of local bop princess Caroline Rose. Her off-kilter, blood-pumping synth pop slapped the venue with masterful commentary on the feminine world-at-large with bangers like “Bikini” and “Money.” Driving through with that much spunk and energy takes guts, and Caroline and company (including her cat Chelsea) embodied Philadelphia’s newfound quirkiness through karate kicks and Britney Spears’ covers (and before you ask, yes it was “Toxic”).
Caroline Rose, copyright Dylan Eddinger Photography
But, boy, the world was not ready for what was about to appear on that stage. Teasing the crowd with an overblown PA playback of “Dancing Queen,” Maggie exploded into view with the Now That the Light is Fading standout “On + Off” and “Dog Years.” Philadelphia was well represented, as Vita and the Woolf took over some instrumental capabilities, with the holes filled in by some of Maggie’s old friends.
As an artist with less than an album’s worth of released music, it was only fitting that the night would be filled with many premieres. Hinting towards a release of some sort, Maggie showcased new tunes deviating successfully with incorporations of disco beats, emphasizing on squeaky-clean guitars and optimism. Each new tune was like a stepping stone laid on her musical journey, inching her ever-so-close to true pop affirmation.
Maggie Rogers, copyright Dylan Eddinger Photography
And my God that smile, that damn smile. She never exuded a negative thought or word throughout the night. [Editor’s note: he is in love. Confirmed]
As the night drew to a close with a soulful rendition of Macy Gray’s “I Try,” the emotions almost absorbed Maggie whole as she struggled to find the correct words to thank everyone who’s been with her for this journey (not to the help of never-ending applause). As she concluded with a true a capella rendition “Color Song” and her overwhelming hit “Alaska,” smiles and jaw-drops were the only expressions that remained.
It’s always a toss-up to call someone “the next big thing,” but here it goes: Maggie Rogers will be the next big thing. Everything about what she performs, says, and radiates is a mindset our culture needs now more than ever. And I’m sure at the very least, her beaming smile will fix everything.
Maggie Rogers, copyright Dylan Eddinger Photography