Avantide’s debut album, ‘Keep Running‘, showcases the band’s knack for blending alt-rock with a fresh and accessible sound. Hailing from Bismarck, North Dakota, the four-piece alternative group formed in 2022, but their chemistry and musical cohesion feel like the work of seasoned veterans. With roots in the local music scene and influences ranging from The Black Keys to Spoon and Pavement, Avantide crafts a sound that is at once nostalgic yet modern.
The album’s nine tracks were penned by core members Adam Maragos, Daniel Pretzer, and Bismarck music stalwart Richard Loewen. Recorded at Red Dot Studios in Mandan, North Dakota, ‘Keep Running‘ brings a raw, homegrown energy to its polished production. There’s a sense of authenticity that runs through the record, a feeling that these songs were born out of genuine camaraderie and a shared love of music.
From the opening song, ‘Take It Slow’, listeners are greeted with tight instrumentals and catchy melodies. The guitar work throughout the album is crisp and confident, with riffs that evoke the bluesy swagger of The Black Keys but with a grittier, more underground vibe. The rhythm section, led by Pretzer, provides a solid backbone for the album without overpowering the more delicate moments.
Lyrically, ‘Keep Running‘ is both reflective and forward-looking, tackling themes of perseverance, change, and personal growth. Tracks like the title song ‘Keep Running’ highlight the band’s ability to partner memorable lyrics with driving rhythms, encouraging listeners to push through life’s challenges.
The album’s production is clean but not overly polished, allowing the band’s raw edge to shine through. There’s a warmth to the recording that makes it feel immediate and intimate, as though the band is playing just for you. While ‘Keep Running‘ is clearly rooted in the alt-rock genre, Avantide’s distinctive sound and approach set them apart, making their debut album a standout effort.
In all, ‘Keep Running’ is an impressive debut that not only introduces Avantide as a band, but also promises even greater things to come. This is a record that rewards repeat listens, with layers of instrumentation and meaning to uncover with each play.
