Full Circle

iTunes Review

Creed represent a form of hard rock that deliberately resists change. Once the formula is perfected, the goal is to replicate it as often as possible until its positive effects can no longer be felt. It’s no surprise that ego would tear this band apart. Eight years have given the band the chance to catch their breath and come up with a consistently strong album that still manages to sound as if they’d never called it quits in the first place. The band excels at music that believes in itself beyond all else. It takes a completely self-possessed hard-rock singer like Scott Stapp to lead the attack convincingly. “Overcome” is a tough, challenging, likable opener. “Rain” sports the band’s nod towards Seattle grunge. “Away In Silence” delivers the dynamics that made the band arena favorites, from an acoustic lullaby to a crunchy anthem. “Fear” throws in a funky riff. The title track again goes to the acoustic guitar for a bluesy cruise. “Time” ripples in the sad waters. Creed never looks to reinvent the wheel as long as their wheel is working fine.