We are delighted to premiere this stripped-back acoustic version of ‘Life and Lies’ from Carrickfergus-based Lee Rogers. Over delicate but insistent guitar-work, Rogers delivers an outstanding vocal performance. Full of engaging melody and character, with controlled changes in volume, and just the right amount of grit, Rogers’ voice gives the song authenticity and emotional resonance. He sings: “Baby I stood up to leave, // but you stood your ground, // right then every wall I’d ever built came, // tumblin’ down,” in an open, honest and direct song about love – how it finds us unexpectedly and gives us hope in tough times. Rogers explains that ‘Life and Lies’ is: “…a slightly cheeky, heartfelt ballad that everyone can relate to, about finding love and just a little light in the darkest places.”
This is the first single from forthcoming album ‘Gameblood’, which is Rogers first full-length release since his 2006 debut. He says of the new record: “My dad was a second generation settled Gypsy with black hair, swarthy skin and green eyes, like me. He had gold hoop earrings and old Indian-inked tattoos. He was as hard as the road he walked on but had the softest heart for us and my mother, who he loved unconditionally. He had a fighting spirit, and that’s what I believe ‘Gameblood’ means and is where the album title comes from.” Rogers notes that the album is: “…a visit to those hard places that most people put to the back of their psyche and build a wall around. Love, lust, life, death, addiction and lots of spirits and ghosts moving around holding it all together. This album is a truer reflection of myself, my stories, where I’ve been and where I hope I am now. It’s music for the grown-up mind, those folk who have seen a bit of life, and can relate to the songs. Though I am hoping some of the kids love the vibe too!”
Rogers used song-writing as a way to work through his personal troubles and trigger a healing process. The resulting album is a sensitive, honest collection of songs that cover a range of themes from love to loss. Check it out.
