Andy Law
The biggest band in America return with an album as polished as Willy Thorne’s forehead.
The Creed that we listen to nowadays is a far radio friendlier version of the band that initially started out back in the mid 90’s. And from opening tracks Bullets and Freedom Fighter, you could be easily lead into thinking ‘rock in a hard place’ would be the place Scott Stapp and co. are returning to.
Sadly (or, who knows, if we’re honest with ourselves, maybe happily…), via Weathered the band continue in the commercially tinged direction that has followed them like a man hunting snake ever since monster hits Arms Wide Open and Higher.
Single My Sacrifice, the even smoother Don’t Stop Dancing and the even smoother still Hide continue that vibe - the rather average acoustic number Lullaby weakens it. But the albums so well produced and so full of structure, it’s hard work to throw to many hardcore faults its way.
Especially considering Creed release the deep, uprooted soul lost or not understood by so many alternative rock bands nowadays, via epic material such as the eight minute Who’s Got My Back?, declaring, What is the truth? Quite…
The blockbuster versed riff of Signs show they’re still got the lick heavy side sorted, while words again impress: "This is not about sex: we all know sex sells and the whole world is buying…"
Elsewhere, there’s the Beatles-esque opening guitars and orchestral featuring One Last Breath and the excellent title track itself - confirming Weathered is an album well worth splashing out on.
Verdict - @@@@
