If It's Too Loud...

Photo by Audrey Hertel Criteria, the new project from Stephen Pedersen (formerly of Cursive), have a new single out before their debut album is released next week. "I am the End" is an energetic if mid-tempo indie rock track with the type of guitar solos usually reserved for metal or prog rock, but certainly not indie. It's an anthem practically begging to be yelled out at a live show, even if the track is about ending something. "I am the End" is an undeniably catchy song bordering on emo or pop punk. Put on your pogoing shoes and crank this one up. Jeff Pedersen says of his band's upcoming album: "These songs feel like alchemy under pressure — love as the undertow, empathy as survival, and seizing the moment as it seizes you.” You can watch the video for "I am the End" below. SEIZE! is due out May 22 on Spartan Records, and is available for pre-order here . For more on Criteria, check out the band on Instagram and Facebook .

Photo by Audrey Hartel Criteria is the new musical project featuring Stephen Pederson, formerly of Cursive. The Omaha band's latest single, "You Maketh Me," is prime melodic indie rock with hints of emo. It's a mid-tempo song with one of the best "Woah-oh-oh-oh-ohhhh"s just begging for a live scream along. Plus, the guitars have this crunch to them that truly makes the song great. Despite it's mid-tempo speed, the song is surprisingly intense, and packs a ton of emotion behind it. There are roots of Midwest emo in "You Maketh Me," but it's more along the lines of alt- and indie rock. Criteria might not have an exact 90's throwback sound, but there are direct lines from that era to their sound. Stephen Pederson says of his band's upcoming album: "These songs feel like alchemy under pressure — love as the undertow, empathy as survival, and seizing the moment as it seizes you.” You can watch the video for "You Maketh Me"...