Criteria Indie Rock, Grunge, 90s Alt Rock, Post Hardcore artist - artist profile photo

Criteria

Criteria is an Omaha, Nebraska-based indie/post-hardcore band formed in 2003 by Cursive founding member Steve Pedersen after he graduated from law school. Known for anthemic, guitar-heavy rock, the band released En Garde (2003) and When We Break (2005) on Saddle Creek Records. After a long hiatus, they returned with the album Years in 2020 and recently announced their new LP "Seize!" for Spartan Records in May of 2026. RIYL: Quicksand, Weezer, Smashing Pumpkins, Battles, Cursive

News updates for Criteria

Omaha indie-rock staple Criteria are back with announcement of new album "Seize!" for Spartan Records and latest single "You Maketh Me"

Omaha indie-rock band Criteria, led by Stephen Pedersen (ex-Cursive), have just announced their new album SEIZE! on May 22 via Spartan Records. Along with the album announcement, the band has released the video for crushing lead off single "You Maketh Me" an absolute ripper that captures what Criteria do best. The album, recorded in Omaha with producer Matt Bayles, is the follow up to 2020's "Years" which was their first album in 15 years and picked up right where the band left off after their sophomore LP. The new album is said to embody a blend of guitar fueled heavy rock reminiscent of Smashing Pumpkins and Quicksand, with the pulse and syncopation of technical percussive-heavy bands like Battles, exploring themes of loss and the importance of seizing the present moment. The band's latest work is a reflection of personal and professional transitions, offering a glimpse into the current state of life through intense and poignant soundscapes.

Make sure you stream the new single below and check out the pre-order bundles available at Spartan Records from the pre-order link.

February 26, 2026

Releases

Seize! by Criteria album cover art - Indie Rock, Grunge, 90s Alt Rock, Post Hardcore

Seize!

May 22, 2026
Years by Criteria album cover art - Indie Rock, Grunge, 90s Alt Rock, Post Hardcore

Years

January 17, 2020
    Criteria – Album Releases, Songs, and Music | Release Wave