Sound: Precise riffs and mathematical rhythms meet aggressive but tuneful vocals that slice and strain into the upper registers. This is sincere and straightforward rock that shares elements with the majority of the best and most respected bands of the last 15 years.
Playlist Partners: The climactic swells, group participation choruses and earnest intensity can be reminiscent of Sunny Day Real Estate, Sparta and At the Drive In with some of the Foo Fighters poppier tendencies streamlining and softening the blow. They also explore the sludgy crunch of Quicksand and the progressive Metal tendencies of Tool and Coheed and Cambria.
Notes: Criteria frontman Stephen Pedersen was an original member of fellow Omaha, Nebraska band Cursive, until he left in 1998. Since then, he got a law degree at Duke University, formed the band White Octave, practiced law and has just now released his second Criteria album (but first for Saddle Creek).
Heavy Rotation tracks: “Prevent the World“; “Self Help“; “Good Luck”
Medium Rotation tracks: “Grey Matter“; “Run Together“; “Draped In the
Blood“; “Kiss the Wake”
Recommended: To anyone looking for a tough and inspired rock album. The only real drawback is that some of the songs feel abruptly short. They have such a great sound and build up that you wish more of the ideas would stretch beyond the 3:30 mark.
Grade: A- (Top 20 Albums of 2005 Candidate)

(As posted 10/3/05 on davepowersmusic.com)
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