South Carolina native Alex Rogers steps into the spotlight with his debut EP, 'Hand Me Down', a five-track collection that feels less like a collection of songs and more like an open diary set to a deeply soulful, country-tinged rock soundtrack. Following on from his October 2024 single, ‘Understanding’, this EP solidifies Rogers as a truly introspective and honest voice in the singer/songwriter landscape.
Recorded in Nashville at Sound Emporium, and remarkably 100% written and co-produced by Rogers himself, the project is a testament to his self-sufficiency and clear artistic vision. Rogers describes the EP candidly as “an autobiographical snapshot of the experiences that shaped me as both an artist and as a person”, a sentiment that adds an undeniable personal touch to every note and soulful tone.
The EP kicks off with ‘Eggshells’, which immediately introduces a mood of southern rock country. Rogers’ powerful vocal delivery takes centre stage as he lays bare his anxieties with the line, “I stand tall on eggshells, praying that these walls don’t fall and I reveal myself.” It’s a raw, immediate emotional hook that pulls the listener straight into his world.
The title track, ‘Hand Me Down’, shifts gears, bringing in a subtle, soulful groove that counterpoints the heavy subject matter of intergenerational emotional baggage. It’s a moving exploration of mental health and breaking cycles, perfectly encapsulated in the poignant hope: “I hope this hand me down sadness, stops with me. That I’m the last branch affected in my family tree.” This vulnerability is what makes Rogers’ music so relatable and vital.
The overarching theme of emotional growth and healing runs throughout the EP, creating a rare cohesiveness, as Rogers notes: “A project of five cohesive songs that I felt belonged together, in a time where one singular body of work is harder and harder to come by from up-and-coming, independent artists.”
The journey wraps up with ‘Need I Remind’, a heartfelt closer that offers a final reminder of unwavering love and connection. With the reassuring promise, “Need I remind you I’m yours . . . Put it all on me, take it out on me, whatever you need,” the EP ends on a warm, reassuring note.
'Hand Me Down' showcases Rogers’ vocal prowess and songwriting depth, proving he’s an artist unafraid to explore the darker corners of his experience to find light and community. You can stream the full EP above, and for more, be sure to connect with Alex today on Instagram and TikTok.
