Endgame is the latest band to emerge from the New Jersey hardcore scene. The four-piece outfit has returned after a split CD with Movement that was released last year. Distracted is a five song EP of upbeat melodic hardcore.
Musically, Endgame have concocted a very catchy mix of fast-paced hardcore and melodic hardcore that draws similarities to Crime in Stereo, Dag Nasty, and Lifetime. "I Divide" is a primo cut with an excellent balance of their aggressive hardcore roots and catchy pop-punk, in the traditional form. Song after song on this EP had me amped up and ready to run in circles.
There have been a lot of bands aping this style of hardcore lately, but Endgame is definitely one of the better ones. This EP shows a good progression from their previous material. If the band continues to fuse their sound with more mainstream leanings, they could blow up.
