Search - Endgames :: Keep On Running

A Stunning Debut

James | NYC | 07/10/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Like every great record, I can honestly say that I love every song. There isn't one weak spot. My musical tastes can be very broad, but if you like bands like Radiohead, Belle and Sebastian, U2, REM, Blur; and just great musical in general, I think you'll really like this band. Endgames have the kind of buzz surrounding them in NY that the Strokes did (and its less fabricated), although I think they are a far better and more original sounding band. Truly a breath of fresh air in a time when every popular band seems to sound like a dated Pearl Jam (do we really need another singer that sounds like Vedder?!?) and every "indie" band is a Strokes knockoff (which is sort of an oxymoron).
My personal favorites are the introspective "Everyone," the yearning "Try," and the totally haunting piano-piece, "Steeplechase." Although I've yet to see them live I've heard they give an incredible bare-knuckles performance (kind of like REM in the early days) and as an added bonus to fans, they revamp both the set and song structure on a show-to-show basis."

Wow.

Ron Eniclerico | Long Island, NY | 07/20/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Okay, so I bought "Keep On Running" because I saw Endgames play at CBGB's about a month ago and my friends and I really liked them. I figured they put on a great live show, so their CD was worth a listen.As it turns out, "Keep On Running" has instantly become one of my favorite albums...ever. I know, I know. But, I was absolutely shocked to discover how unbelivably good this album is. Every song sounds like it could be a hit. "Try" is one of those rare songs that is wildly catchy without being contrived. "Everything You Dream" is my personal favorite, but "Everyone" and "Steeple Chase" are probably the finest moments. They're very moving and have this distinctly original sound that just forces you to pay close attention. Both made my girlfriend cry which is probably the highest compliment I could muster. Also, "Ten Gallon Hat" is one of the best closers in recent memory. It contains some beautiful harmonies. As far as the band itself: Mike Aronow has an absolutely gorgeous voice. You can hear shades of Thom Yorke and John Lennon in there, but this is a voice that is really totally original and one that really stays with you. It's both sweet and sad at the same time (which is a good thing). The band is absolutely incredible. Jeff Walsh, the guitarist, incorporates every style under the sun over the 11 songs and man does it work. You can hear a lot of U2, REM and Radiohead in there, but he also works some country in there too which is both unexpected and very, very good. You can hear it most on "(My Name Is On) Your Box of Memories." The rhythm section is awesome, as well. The bass line makes "Everything You Dream" and the mix of electronic and real drums on "Everyone" is a highlight. Basically, I recommend "Keep On Running" to everyone. Something tells me I won't be the last person to fall in love with this album...or this band."

Best ever live and recorded!

Ron Eniclerico | 12/27/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I can't believe I got the chance to see a band this good live. I also cannot believe that they're not famous yet! I am so excited to oneday be able to say that I saw them back in the day when they were "underground"!!! Everyone should buy this CD! And everyone should visit their web site for upcoming show dates......"