Despite what their jukebox might suggest, Jennifer and Laura Rogers, the talented siblings behind New York City’s pop-punk art-garage trio, the Rogers Sisters, aren’t your typical rock elitists. The band, which also includes bassist Miyuki Furtado, has made a name for itself in the vibrant New York music scene, blending a deep knowledge of rock history with an unmistakable sense of humor and self-awareness.
Beyond their music, the Rogers sisters are also known for their bar, Daddy’s, in Brooklyn’s east Williamsburg. The bar features a tabletop Pac-Man/Galaga game and two pinball machines, achieving a balance of charm without descending into kitsch—a reflection of the sisters’ own aesthetic. The jukebox at Daddy’s is a testament to their eclectic tastes, with selections that range far and wide, though it remains surprisingly selective. “It’s got a wide selection, but it doesn’t include a lot of stuff,” Jennifer Rogers explains.
Their debut album, Purely Evil, released on Troubleman Unlimited, captures the essence of their live performances—a raw, danceable post-punk sound that resonates with the energy of New York’s underground music scene. The album was recorded in a whirlwind 36 hours, with most tracks recorded live and vocals laid down in just one or two takes. “All of the instruments were done live, and the vocals were either done in one or two takes, so it’s a pretty accurate representation of what we sound like live,” Furtado shares.
The Rogers Sisters’ music stands out not just for its infectious energy but also for its clever lyricism. Songs like “Now They Know (XOXO)” playfully critique the New York City rock scene from a fan’s perspective, adding a layer of self-referential humor that sets them apart from their peers. Their work has garnered attention from major publications, but the band remains grounded, wary of the dangers of hype. “It’s hard when the hype gets so out of control,” Jennifer says. “In the long run, that’s not that good for the band.”
Before forming the Rogers Sisters, Jennifer and Laura were part of Ruby Falls, an indie band that dissolved in 1999. Jennifer convinced Laura to join her in New York, where they eventually opened Daddy’s, drawing on their experience working in bars and restaurants. Furtado, originally from Hawaii, brings a unique blend of influences to the band, from punk and new wave to Afro-beat and hip-hop, reflecting his diverse upbringing across different continents.
Purely Evil’s album art is as eclectic as the band itself—a collage featuring everything from George W. Bush and Martha Stewart to a $20 bill and an SUV. “There’s nothing evil on there except for the SUV, maybe. We’re very against SUVs,” Jennifer quips, hinting at the band’s playful but pointed social commentary.
In a music scene often dominated by hype and pretension, the Rogers Sisters stand out as a band that’s refreshingly authentic, blending their deep musical roots with a distinctive sense of style and humor. Whether performing live or curating the perfect jukebox playlist, they prove that you can be knowledgeable and passionate about music without taking yourself too seriously.
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