The late nineties saw an unlikely surge in “Christian bands” hitting the airwaves. From the softer rock of Jars of Clay, Sixpence None the Richer, and Switchfoot to the harder sounds of P.O.D., MxPx and mewithoutyou. None, though, had the staying power of Florida’s post-grunge pariahs, Creed, who, despite unfavorable critical reception, managed to become one of the top-selling musical acts of the 2000s. Creed’s Greatest Hits, originally released in 2004, is a compelling collection that encapsulates the essence of the band’s influence on post-grunge rock. Assembled from their most successful tracks, this album serves as a testament to Creed’s impact on the late 90s and early 2000s rock scene. Craft Recordings is giving the compilation a wide vinyl release for the first time as a 2-LP set featuring an etching on Side D that mirrors the cover art.
The album opens with “Torn,” setting a strong tone with its powerful guitar riffs and Scott Stapp’s distinctive vocal delivery. “My Own Prison” follows, showcasing the band’s knack for blending introspective lyrics with a hard-hitting musical backdrop. The other two hits from their debut, My Own Prison, “What’s This Life For” and “One” further highlight Creed’s ability to craft songs that resonate with a sense of existential questioning and emotional depth. Side B includes the hits from their multi-platinum, sophomore release Human Clay. “Higher” and “With Arms Wide Open” are undeniably anthemic, with their soaring choruses and memorable melodies. These songs, in particular, showcase the band’s skill in creating radio-friendly rock that still retains a sense of authenticity and emotional weight. One of the standout aspects of this compilation is the cohesion between tracks. Despite being a collection of songs from different albums, there is a seamless flow that makes Greatest Hits feel like a well-curated journey through Creed’s musical evolution. Side C brings together the band’s hits from 2001’s Weathered, like their Grammy-nominated hits “My Sacrifice” and “One Last Breath.” The inclusion of tracks like “Weathered” and “Bullets” provides a glimpse into the band’s later work, which, while more polished, still carries the raw intensity of their earlier years.
While some critics have often dismissed Creed for their formulaic approach and perceived lack of innovation, Greatest Hits stands as a counterpoint to such criticisms. It highlights the band’s ability to create music that, while perhaps not groundbreaking, is undeniably impactful and memorable. Creed’s Greatest Hits is an essential collection for both long-time fans and newcomers alike. It captures the spirit of a band that, despite its controversies and fluctuating critical reception, managed to leave an indelible mark on the rock music landscape. For anyone looking to revisit the sounds of late 90s and early 2000s rock, or to understand why Creed remains a staple in the genre, this album is all that you need.
