CONCERT REVIEW: CREED’s Triumphant Tour Is Cementing Their Claim To The Rock N’ Roll Throne, And Reigniting Fans Across Generations

After a 12-year hiatus, Creed has risen from the ashes like a majestic phoenix, reclaiming its rightful place in the musical landscape. In a triumphant comeback of epic portions, the group officially announced their reunion in July 2023, captivating fans with a “Summer of 99” Tour, with supporting acts 3 Doors Down, Mammoth WVH, and Daughtry at selected shows.

With countless sold-out summer performances under their belts for their reunion, Creed are feeding off the renewed enthusiasm and expanded their touring plans with a “Are You Ready? Tour” of North America. For their recent show at the PPL Center in Allentown, PA, Creed – Mark Tremonti [guitar], Scott Stapp [vocals], Brian Marshall [bass], Scott Phillips [drums], and Eric Friedman [guitar] – added another notch to their belt for selling out the 10,000-seat venue.

With a setlist that delves deep into their discography, unearthing beloved hits and fan favorites that have stood the test of time, the “Are You Ready? Tour” has seen Creed reconnecting with their loyal supporters and introducing their signature sound to a new generation of music enthusiasts hungry for the raw power and emotional resonance that has always defined the band. With this renewed chapter, the band stands poised to reclaim their rightful place as one of the modern era’s most compelling and influential rock acts.

When Creed took the stage, they launched into a powerful trio of songs that set the tone for the evening. They opened with the driving, anthemic “Bullets,” the thunderous drumbeats timed to shooting pillars of fire and roaring guitar chords immediately captivating the audience. Seamlessly transitioning into the rousing “Freedom Fighter,” the band members moved with a fluid, almost choreographed grace, each musician locked into the groove, feeding off the crowd’s energy. The third song, “Torn,” was delivered with surgical precision and meticulously emulating the album.

Their setlist covered their four albums, with a majority of songs coming from “Human Clay,” including “Are You Ready,” “Never Die,” and “What If.” Songs like “My Own Prison” and “One” from their debut record, “My Own Prison“, were played with the unbridled passion and energy of when it was originally written 27 years ago.

A relentless guitar onslaught fuels a Creed show, courtesy of Mark and Eric. These two axe-wielders showcased their technical mastery. Mark‘s powerful and unfaltering right hand toggled the delicate picking on “One Last Breath” and galloping forcefulness on “Unforgiving.” His left hand showcased his sheer speed with technical intricacies. Combine that with his experimental tuning and prolific songwriting, and there are no doubts as to why he is a guitar player for our generation. Eric‘s a terrific addition to the band who easily matched Mark riff for riff.

With a voice that effortlessly oscillates between silky smooth and thunderously powerful, Scott commanded the stage for over 90 minutes, captivating the audience with his energy and unwavering stage presence. As he introduced each song, he shared the importance of embracing life’s moments, the good and the bad, with equal appreciation for a learning opportunity. It was a cathartic journey of his self-expression. He wanted fans to learn from his words and the music by applying it to their struggles. His every movement and gesture radiated the sheer magnetism of a true rock star. When he launched into the band’s heartfelt rendition of “Take Me Higher,” Scott‘s voice soared with passion, his emotive delivery infusing each word with a profound personal feeling that resonated deeply with the enraptured crowd. With his commanding physical presence and expressive voice, Scott proved he is an utterly spellbinding frontman.

Scott Phillips is the band’s engine room, ensuring all songs are timed and paced to perfection. He is a versatile drummer who can easily switch his playing styles to suit the needs of each song seamlessly. Brian‘s lightning-fast fingers laid down the low end and knew how to handle a song by playing between the melody and the harmony, which is felt more than heard.

As the concert wound down, the crowd’s energy reached a fever pitch with the final two songs for the encore, “One Last Breath” and “My Sacrifice.” However, the show’s true highlight was the band’s performance of “Higher,” a powerful song with 10,000 fans singing in unison. Creed‘s brand of no-nonsense, hard-hitting rock has struck a deep chord with their fanbase, who find themselves captivated by the authentic emotion and message of resilience conveyed through the band’s songs.

Creed‘s ability to craft songs that leave an indelible mark on the soul of the listener is a testament to their status as true musical trailblazers, redefining the boundaries of the rock genre and connecting with their audience in a way that few other acts can match.