Criminal Hero is a name that feels as punchy as the music behind it; a brand new Canadian rock project that’s built on rhythm, lift and uncompromising energy. Built on the frameword of classic rock but wired with modern alternative vibes, it’s music that’s accessible yet entirely original, offering a sound that lands somewhere between the swagger of 70s rock and the impact of contemporary punk, channelled through tight songwriting and a sense of motion that’s become the project’s hallmark.
Raised in Toronto, Criminal Hero’s story traces a path across North America from the gritty bar stages of Detroit to the refined studios of Vancouver, each city leaving its imprint on the project’s identity. Toronto provided the bedrock with a deep love of hard-edged guitar music and the timeless flair of classic rock. Detroit reignited that fire, surrounded by musicians still grinding it out in small venues, playing like every night was the one that mattered.
It was there, among performances and late-night sessions, that the spark returned, the guitar was picked back up and the first songs that would form the debut album began to take shape. When the recordings finally made their way to Vancouver for mixing and mastering, the sound crystallised, resulting in a sound that carries the spirit of all three places.

It’s a combination that gives Criminal Hero its distinct character, delivering music that feels instantly memorable but forward-looking, nostalgic yet cutting edge. That vision comes to life on the debut single titled “You Better Believe,” a track that revolves around tight rhythms, catchy hooks and guitar work that’s at once robust and melodic, resulting in a song that captures the essence of Criminal Hero’s approach of straightforward rock energy delivered with a modern touch.
It’s high-octane but positive, shaking with confidence and purpose without leaning into aggression for its own sake. Kicked off by the crunch of guitar chord and lively roll of drums, the track jumps into a bounce rock n’ roll jam that glides with gritty riffs, splashy drums and commanding vocal performance spinning infectious melodic lines above. Brimming with anthemic choruses, punk attitude and slick lead guitar work, it’s an epic outing that’s lively and invigorating from start to finish.
Propelled by relentless rhythmic energy and exhilarating instrumentation capped by gripping vocal performance, it’s a spectacular first outing that firmly plants Criminal Hero on the map of must watch artist on the rise. Staking their claim as torch bearers for rock music in the modern era, Criminal Hero is set to win over fans around the world on what’s sure to be their breakout year as a thrilling new act.
Listen to You Better Believe below
More from Music
Frannie B drops new single “Echo”
Based in Oxford, Frannie B has been making an impact in the UK music scene with a pop-focused sound that …
Brand new single from Nick Norton-Smith
London-based composer and multi-instrumentalist Nick Norton-Smith has built a decorated career across an unusually diverse musical landscape, moving between film, …
New full-length record from Divergent
While some musical ambitions take a little longer to find their moment, the journey for Iowa-based trio Divergent has been …










