The Creed

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Any sports fan worth his tray of nachos will tell you that a winning team should never mess much with its lineup. So you'll forgive Avalon fans if they approach The Creed with a little trepidation. After all, half of the award-winning group has left for other ventures and new arrivals Greg Long and Melissa Greene now join Jody McBrayer and Janna Long as the new Avalon. But like the Patriots and Yankees who change faces with the same successful results, Avalon has yet another winner with The Creed. Vocal chemistry, always critical to ensemble groups like Avalon, appears as stable as ever with Long adding his powerful vocals and soprano Greene capping the high end with style. In fact, Long is showcased on "I Wanna Be With You," a definite radio-hit-in-the-making with an irresistible sing-along chorus, as well as the title track, a powerful statement of faith forged by the group's vocal tour-de-force. And like a true winning organization, Avalon called upon the best resources with producers Brown Bannister, Charlie Peacock, and Tedd T., and the best songwriting by approaching 20 different writers in search of material. The end result will no doubt be more awards, more radio hits, and more lives touched by this group's smooth but soulful delivery. --Michael Lyttle

The Creed, Music, Avalon, CCM, Gospel, Pop, Religious / Contemp. Christian
Greatest Hits (w/ Bonus DVD)
Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  • If you like CREED, then this is a nice compilation (plus there is a bonus!)
  • Creed's Greatist Hits was a pleasant surprise.
  • Despite the band's multiple faults, their music works
  • I love it
  • One of the worst bands ever!!!!!!!!
 Greatest Hits (w/ Bonus DVD)
Creed
Manufacturer: Wind-Up
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. The Great Divide
  2. rearviewmirror (Greatest Hits 1991-2003)
  3. Weathered
  4. All the Right Reasons
  5. Away From The Sun

ASIN: B00065DH0O
Release Date: 2004-11-23

Tracks:

  1. Torn
  2. My Own Prison
  3. What's This Life For
  4. One
  5. Are You Ready
  6. Higher
  7. With Arms Wide Open
  8. What If
  9. One Last Breath
  10. Don't Stop Dancing
  11. Bullets
  12. My Sacrifice
  13. Weathered

Amazon.com

If Nirvana's Nevermind heralded alternative's ascendancy into the mainstream, Creed's mega-successful 1997 debut showed just how quickly--and craftily--alt.rock's musical hallmarks could be utterly co-opted by it. Fueled by vocalist Scott Stapp's Weiland-inspired growl, Creed rode the Seattle pop-suffused string of hits included here to become one of the 90's most successful rock acts--if one whose level of critical revile nearly matched its multi-million sales. This CD/DVD combo features 13 of the band's signature performances (including all eight of its number one singles), songs that often turn on a Christianity-inspired message that could be as opaque (the anthemic "Higher") as it was overt ("My Own Prison," "What's This Life For"). The accompanying DVD completes the career retrospective, anthologizing nine of the band's videos along with previously unreleased live performances of "Torn," "Higher" and "Weathered." --Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars If you like CREED, then this is a nice compilation (plus there is a bonus!).......2007-07-03


As my title said: "If you like CREED, then this is a nice compilation (plus there is a bonus!)" ...It's worth the money!

The bonus I'm referring to, is a DVD that comes with this CREED Greatest Hits CD.

The songs are very crisp and well arranged. They will not disappoint.

5 out of 5 stars Creed's Greatist Hits was a pleasant surprise........2007-06-15

My friend intruduced me to Creed a few months ago when he played his Creed Greatist Hits on his X-Box. At first, I just thought it was just "sissy rock" as I put it, but as I listened to it more and more, I found that it was actually pretty good. Now I view Creed as a pretty good band. I burned his Greatist Hits to my iTunes so I could listen to it more. After listening to it, I decided I liked it, but not enough to buy all their previous cds. Anyway, if you've heard a couple of Creed songs but don't know where to go, this is a good place to start. If you like it, you can decide for yourself whether to actually buy the rest of their cds.

Best Tracks (in my opinion)-One, With Arms Wide Open, and Bullets.

4 out of 5 stars Despite the band's multiple faults, their music works.......2007-05-21

When criticizing Creed given all the choices it's hard to know where to start:

- Their music certainly borrows "heavily" from others. For example, "My Sacrifice" contains a repetitive guitar riff straight out of Zep's "Kashmir" and "Bullets" sounds like a bad out-take from a track that didn't make the cut for Soundgarden's debut album;
- No matter how much the band tries to emulate Seattle grunge, Stapp's voice couldn't even compete with Chris Cornell's of Soundgarden on Cornell's worst day;
- Stapp's faith seems less than sincere and more of a commercial angle.

But with all that oddly the music still works and is of high enough quality to more than compensate for the glaring weaknesses. Highlights like "Higher", "My Sacrifice", "My Own Prison", "One Last Breath", "Arms Wide Open" and "What's This Life For" get a listen whenever they're played. And the lesser knowns like "What If", "One" and "Weathered" are adequate fillers.

It's not hard to figure out why Creed only made a couple albums before packing it in; they simply ran out of material when there was nothing left to be "heavily influenced" by and Stapp's questionable faith marked by backstage XXX videos and public drunkenness wasn't sufficient to see them through. But for all their faults, they're about the most digestable of all the grunge/post-grunge copy bands out there. If you've avoided Creed thus far but like grunge, I'd strongly suggest you give this Greatest Hits a chance.

5 out of 5 stars I love it.......2007-05-16

If you are a Creed fan, this is a great item to have.

1 out of 5 stars One of the worst bands ever!!!!!!!!.......2007-04-28

Creed an extremely overrated band. This guys just ripped off the Seattle style, like a lot of poeple already said but there is something more. The style of songs such as "With Arms Wide Open" and "One Last Breath", that is with those atmospheric arpeggios for the intro/verses and then switch into power chords for the chorus is so old actually!!!! It was done exactly like that in the 70's already! It's not only the Saettle bands that these guys ripped of!!
Just listen to the 70's band Scorpions on songs such as "In Trance" from the album of the same name ('75), "Always Somewhere" from the album Lovedrive ('79), "When the Smoke is Going Down" from Blackout ('82), "Lady Starlight" from Animal Magnetism ('80), or even try Lynyrd Skynyrd's song "Simple Man" from their self-titled debut ('73)!!!!!!!! You'll notice that those songs have a very simialr style.
So original or groundbreaking are not words you can use when talking about this band. Just remember: for Creed when it's a heavy song they are ripping off Seattle, when it's a melodic one they are ripping of either still Seattle or Scorpions. So what's so great about these guys? Nothing!!! Creed SUCKS!!!!!!!
Now go get Seattle bands Pear Jam, Soundgarden, Nirvana, Alice In chains, Mudhoney, Melvins, or try the older bands Scorpions, Lynyrd Skynyrd, UFO, Thin Lizzy, Nazareth, Buzzcocks, Ramones, Iron Maiden ,Judas Priest, Megadeth..... I could go on and on!!! Now those are great bands!!!!!!!!
Forget about Creed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
My Own Prison
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • on their way
  • To not own is ignorant! 4.7
  • One Of The Greatest Debut Albums!!!
  • One of my all time favorite albums
  • Lost without Creed
 My Own Prison
Creed
Manufacturer: Wind-Up
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Human Clay
  2. Weathered
  3. The Great Divide
  4. One Day Remains
  5. Greatest Hits (w/ Bonus DVD)

ASIN: B000005B4T
Release Date: 1997-08-26

Tracks:

  1. Torn
  2. Ode
  3. My Own Prison
  4. Pity For A Dime
  5. In America
  6. Illusion
  7. Unforgiven
  8. Sister
  9. What's Life For
  10. One

Amazon.com

It took a few years, but the "Seattle sound" migrated south. In 1997 Creed emerged from the sunny state of Florida wielding dark and dulcet postgrunge tones. Their 10-cut debut, My Own Prison, has became a surprising success by filling a niche for needy teen gloom-rockers. Singer Scott Stapp has the soulful and rich Eddie Vedder inflections down pat, but despite Creed's slightly hackneyed approach, My Own Prison is full of strong, memorable, tuneful songs (and numerous solid singles) coupled with compelling and dark emotions. Titles such as "Illusion," "Unforgiven," "What's This Life For," and "Torn" clearly peg Creed as dour introverts. But despite lyrics such as "Their souls are lost / Because they could never find / What's this life for," Creed is musically tight and dynamic, drawing on melodies that are often moving and uplifting... in a depressing sort of way, of course. --Katherine Turman

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars on their way.......2007-06-30


Compared to the music Creed later gave us, this debut album must be qualified as a strong start. Understandably, it falls short of the band's mature sound.

Still, there are some rockin' good tracks here. They were signaling the Creed they'd become.

Some of the lyrics are a bit self-possessed, but on the way to breakout.

Stapp's voice is as good as it gets, but the band had not yet caught up with him.

'Not to worry, however: they would do so in good time. And then the music would get to be a very good thing.

5 out of 5 stars To not own is ignorant! 4.7.......2007-04-11

This cd is just great. Contains the best Creed song in 'Ode', but also features 'One", 'My Own Prison', 'Illusion' and the absolutely stellar 'Unforgiven'. From Heavy to mellow, there is something for everyone here. I agree, this is one of the best debuts out there. Great guitar work and not overproduced (the ONLY problem with Weathered IMO). There is no need in debating the obvious. Not everyone liked Creed but to not see the magic in at least some of their music is impossible.

5 out of 5 stars One Of The Greatest Debut Albums!!!.......2007-03-14

In all genres of music it seems that some of the best bands...their first album is always the best. Bands seemed to buckle under the pressure to follow up their second, third album to match their first. Creed is no exception. To their credit, it would have been almost impossible to follow up another album that would compare to "My Own Prison". This album is as close to flawless as it gets. To those of you that have listen to this album in depth, you are aware of what I am saying. The songs, it would seem, were not designed to get major radio play, or end up in the top 10. Every song is filled with pure soul lifting music. Call it Grunge, Christian Rock or whatever adjective you choose to use. All I know is this album is a classic and by the pitiful standards that are used to judge music today, it will be a long time coming before another first album or any album has the pure genius to be classified as a classic the same day that it's released.

5 out of 5 stars One of my all time favorite albums.......2007-03-08

I actually just bought this as a replacement for my original copy. I know people either loved or hated Creed but this album is simply phenominal, there's not a bad song on it and the guitar work is amazing. If you only buy one Creed album in your life, this should be it!

5 out of 5 stars Lost without Creed.......2007-01-11

It was a sad day for all of us when Creed disbanded. They were such an outstanding band. However, Scott Stapp is carrying on the tradition and we can now see who the real talent was in the band Creed. Scott still performs as well as he did when he was a member of Creed, and his lyrics are still just as captivating.
Human Clay
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Formulised Abomination
  • Good, solid rock performance
  • I had to come and review this dreck
  • Honestly people, they were sued by their own fans...
  • "What if your words could be judged like a crime?"
 Human Clay
Creed
Manufacturer: Wind-Up
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. My Own Prison
  2. Weathered
  3. The Great Divide
  4. Greatest Hits (w/ Bonus DVD)
  5. The Better Life

ASIN: B00001NFCY
Release Date: 1999-09-28

Tracks:

  1. Are You Ready
  2. What If
  3. Beautiful
  4. Say I
  5. Wrong Way
  6. Faceless Man
  7. Never Die
  8. With Arms Wide Open
  9. Higher
  10. Wash Away Those Years
  11. Inside Us All

Amazon.com

Creed burst out of Florida with 1997's My Own Prison, a dark but commercial debut reminiscent of the early-'90s Seattle sound. Creed's moody guitar grunge and ardent lyrics, coupled with singer Scott Stapp's passionate vocals, helped My Own Prison sell millions. Human Clay demonstrates that this likable quartet hasn't messed with success; they turn in a sophomore outing rife with evocative moodiness, soaring guitars, and a dark, roiling, intense vibe. "Beautiful" is but one of the winners on this strong 11-song CD. Haunting and indeed beautiful, the track is more delicate and seductive than most heard here, as is another lilting and mysterious entry, "Never Die," which boasts some Middle Eastern accents. "Higher" is typical Creed--safe, emotive guitar rock for the masses, but with a slight edge. Memorable hooks, Soundgarden-like guitars, and Vedder-like vocals make Human Clay at once compelling and effectively redundant. --Katherine Turman

Customer Reviews:

1 out of 5 stars Formulised Abomination.......2007-07-14

After their previous CD, which was not too bad on one or two tracks, "Human Clay" came out. More the same stuff, just on a different CD. This CD was truly a step backwards for Creed, if that were ever possible.

It seems like Creed tried to add some grunge elements to their music, and it just didn't come off. Abominable tracks like "Wrong Way", with occassional ventures into real rock, "Say I", that borders on the dismal, and more that truly defy the senses.

The pity is that the lyrical content is actually pretty good and has some substance to it. Sadly, the overall execution just didn't cut it and match that.

Even for fans of hard rock, this would be a CD to avoid. Don't waste your money.

4 out of 5 stars Good, solid rock performance.......2007-07-08

I was not familiar with the band before giving this a listen and I like what I heard. Willlook to add more Creed to library.

1 out of 5 stars I had to come and review this dreck.......2007-06-23

Scott Stapp is already said and done, Creed no longer is alive and Scott Stapp is already going the way of Brittany Spears. SO reviewing this is pretty much a waste of time. Im late? _______ that _________!

First Scott Stapp is a total moron. Insulting Fred Durst? To be honest, I hate Scott Stapp more than Fred Durst. He's one of the worst "singers" ever, and only people like Lame Gallagher from _____ band Oasis surpass this hack. Attacking 311 is even worse. 311 will do a lot more than Scott Stapp will ever be.

Anyway, _____ scott, Creed itself is so _________ boring, it's lame, and the music will put you to sleep. IT's like staring at a _________ wall for hours, or something of that nature. Long story short-it's generic, stupid, boring, generic music that sounds like something the cat dragged in. It's not music, plain and simple. It's noise, well there is noise music, and they are worthy, so what is Creed? Calling it noise is a disgrace to respectful noise musicians (which yes, I like). I have no clue, but it's not music, plain and simple.

Pearl Jam owns Creed's sorry little @$$, but that news is way too old. Let this record rot on the shelves. Creed are done for, and Eddie Vedder still lives on. Glad your dead, Kurt. Glad he's burning. Then again, he took his life.

1 out of 5 stars Honestly people, they were sued by their own fans..........2007-03-29

Everyone has heard about that right? Creed was sued by their own fans for playing crappy live shows ahahaha! It would be really difficult to find a rock album that sucks more than this. Seriously, if you ever feel the desire to buy this piece of garbage, please rethink it and buy the albums that these guys are ripping off and pilfering from. Anything by Pearl Jam or other early nineties rock act would be great. Collectively, we can make America a place where talentless losers like Creed don't become stars with their awful music!

5 out of 5 stars "What if your words could be judged like a crime?".......2006-10-26

Creed is(or was) one of the most loathed mainstream rock bands in recent memory, and I never truly figured out why that was. Granted I only own Human Clay, and have only heard the singles from My Own Prison and Weathered. My brother bought Human Clay around the time it came out, and we almost listened the disc into little plastic particles! Of course, I was only about 12 at the time, so I couldn't fully appreciate the album as much as others could, lyrically speaking. Well, about 6 months ago, I was getting ready to move, and I found a "weathered" jewel case sitting somewhere in a dusty old box. I popped it in, and all the memories came flooding back to me, I felt like I was twelve again. I swear I've listened to it another 50 times since I rediscovered it.

Human Clay is one of the better rock records of the last 10 years. Mark Tremonti's awesome lead guitar coupled with Scott Stapp's Vedderesc agressiveness are the two most immediate aspects of the record. These guys are definitely a step up from most of the mainstream crop, and the record hasn't aged one bit, it sounds like it could've come out just yesterday. There aren't any weak songs on Human Clay, per se, although to get the weakest out of the way: "Wrong Way"...............And that's about it. Other than that the only thing that bothers me about Human Clay is the fact that there are two versions of "With Arms Wide Open", which I find sort of needless. Now that the negatives are out of the way, we'll get to where Human Clay Excels. The Opening track, "Are You Ready", definitley sets the tone for what's to come. Notable are the agressive vocal thrashes accompied by melodic guitar riffs, though neither seem to dominate eachother. The production quality on Human Clay is fantastic, though I'd have liked it if there were a few more songs on the album. It kinda ends before you'd hoped it would, with barely over an hour of music(including the "With Arms Wide Open" repeat). This is the average as I understand it, but maybe more and more bands are putting more than 10 songs on their records these days, and maybe that's spoiled me.

The best songs on Human Clay are definitely: "What If", "Higher", and "Faceless Man". Those are by far the ones I listen to the most, although I rarely if ever skip by any songs on the record, other than "Wrong Way".

There is a theory that different people hear the same music differently from eachother, and I think because of this band's popularity, it's created this massive debate. Don't debate, just enjoy this or something else. But please, if you haven't given Creed a shot yet, I can definitely recommend Human Clay to you.
The Great Divide
Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  • TIME TO RAMBLE ON!
  • My Sacrifice -- Listening to this album
  • Debut solo effort from former Creed belter
  • A valiant attempt...
  • I LOVE IT......
 The Great Divide
Scott Stapp
Manufacturer: Wind-Up
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Greatest Hits (w/ Bonus DVD)
  2. One Day Remains
  3. My Own Prison
  4. Human Clay
  5. Weathered

ASIN: B000B5NHYU
Release Date: 2005-11-22

Tracks:

  1. Reach Out
  2. Fight Song
  3. Hard Way
  4. Justify
  5. Let Me Go
  6. Surround Me
  7. The Great Divide
  8. Sublime
  9. You Will Soar
  10. Broken

Amazon.com

On his solo debut Creed vocalist Scott Stapp steps up with an album that delicately balances his past with his present but without apology for either. Songs such as "Reach Out" and "You Will Soar" appease longtime fans without serving as mere Creed retreads, but the material that breaks almost entirely from tradition (namely "Sublime") remains some of the most satisfying. With no fewer than three single-worthy tracks--"Let Me Go," "Surround Me," "You Will Soar," plus the already-released title cut--The Great Divide doesn't just find Stapp standing firmly on his own feet it also finds him, more often than not, reaching for new heights. --Jedd Beaudoin

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars TIME TO RAMBLE ON!.......2007-02-21

Didnt buy the album. thought about it, think ill just borrow it.

I was a Creed fan, but kinda got sick of listening to stapps voice.

Would highly recommend the AlterBridge album. (5 Stars)

Also, after hearing AlterBridge and further investigating Myles found that he was with a band call The Mayfield Four. Their album Second Skin. is also a 5 star recommendation. Definately worth a listen

A very fresh perspective. and Myles Kennedy sounds as though he is exponentially more trained as a vocalist. Plus he can play the guitar.

God Bless Stapp, Hey, He had quite a run(out of nowhere), but it is time to take it to the house.

Was very impressed with Creed way back in the beginning. But have enjoyed the AlterBridge album and the Mayfield Four album-Second Skin quite a bit more. Hopefully they wont give up. been listening to it almost daily for two years now. Really worth a listen.

1 out of 5 stars My Sacrifice -- Listening to this album.......2006-12-11

Ahhh, the long awaited Scott Stapp solo album. The resurgence of Scott Stapp begs the immediate question -- Is there anything Scott Stapp can't do? The answer is invariably YES: sing, write decent songs, or stay out of jail. Lets start with the album cover and the goofy aramaic looking symbol behind him. When loosely translated, the writing reads the phrase "I'm a tool." Though I'll have to give him credit, I was expecting the album cover to be a picture of him nailed to a cross. Instead he went with a tastful picture of himself dressed like a biker and posing like he's being voilated by a [...] thermometer. For all those folks out there looking for that "inspiration" they all seem to find in Stapp's lyrics, I suggest you get some inspiration from the business end of a Lousiville slugger. Maybe then you won't reach out to the psuedo-Christian rocker that got arrested on his wedding day. And I don't even have to mention the video of him and Kid Rock having sex with groupies.

4 out of 5 stars Debut solo effort from former Creed belter.......2006-11-09

On his debut solo platter Stapp knows he's up against a hell of a lot of expectation after Creed split. And out of this disc and the Alter Bridge album it's this one that is closest to the Creed blueprint. That is partly due to his voice but the music is also closer to the mans previous bands efforts. So ultimately this is a hard rock album by someon with a pretty good track record in the genre - so what do we get?

Firstly the obligatory hard rockers open up the album and they do encapsulate perhaps the anger of Stap regarding certain situations he's faced over the last couple of years prior to the albums release. His voice is straining at the bit, sounding rougher and harsher than I've ever heard it. All backed up by solid guitar - a wall of sound - provided by Aristides Rincon and John Curry.

This theme of anger and self realisation is continued in tracks like Justify;

I do not have to justify
the way I live my life
I do not have to justify
the reason I'm alive

You get the picture. Other tracks hint at the christian ethos of Stapp but generally it's held in check enough to prevent it becoming too much of a distraction. And while there are a couple of tracks that don't quite work (Sublime being a case in point) there are plenty of uplifting rock songs here to have your top tapping along, prime cuts for me being You Will Soar and the title track.

Any Creed fan should buy this. And there were plenty of them!

4 out of 5 stars A valiant attempt..........2006-10-04

I'm a fan of all music, jazz, metal, ska, reggae, rap, hip/hop...you name it. I was somewhat a fan of Creed and it's not surprising that Scott Stapp's "The Great Divide" is Creed-esque in almost every aspect. Firstly, to say that Creed was a great band is a complete fallacy as any respectible musician knows this (a bar chord strummed 75 times per song does not qualify as great technical musical ability) and second, the frontman is the leader of the band and the style he/she brings to the table is just that; their style. You may or may not criticize Scott Stapp for his attempt but one thing that is for sure is that his music/lyrics are catchy and that is what sells on the mainstream. I gave this review 4 stars because Scott hasn't changed his style in an ever changing music world and because I can. In summation, if you like Creed, you'll probably like this album (depending on your own feelings about Creed's breakup).

And in response to some reviewers...who buys music anymore anyway? If you want to listen just download it, it's that easy (Piracy is still king)

5 out of 5 stars I LOVE IT.............2006-08-01

..........it's actually helping me heal through a few issues, as well. Need I say more?
One Day Remains
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Not the same version that Edge uses
  • Better than Creed. Really.
  • WOW!!
  • Great Album!
  • Bridge to Success
 One Day Remains
Alter Bridge
Manufacturer: Wind-Up
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
Post GrungePost Grunge | American Alternative | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. The Great Divide
  2. My Own Prison
  3. Weathered
  4. Human Clay
  5. Greatest Hits (w/ Bonus DVD)

ASIN: B0002IU988
Release Date: 2004-08-10

Tracks:

  1. Find The Real
  2. One Day Remains
  3. Open your Eyes
  4. Burn It Down
  5. Metalingus
  6. Broken Wings
  7. In Loving Memory
  8. Down To My Last
  9. Watch Your Words
  10. Shed My Skin
  11. The End Is Here

Album Description

Creed's Mark Tremonti, Scott Phillips, and Brian Marshall re-emerge as ALTER BRIDGE with new singer Myles Kennedy.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Not the same version that Edge uses.......2007-06-20

I'll be honest, I bought this CD because one of the songs, "Metalingus", is the theme song for WWE Wrestler Edge and it was not available on any WWE albums.

The song on the CD is not exactly the same as Edge uses for his entrance. The drum riff used before Edge comes out is at the end of the song here, and the part of the song you hear as he proceeds to the ring is actually over halfway through this version. So, wrestling fans be forewarned.

However it was good to find that I enjoyed the rest of the album. My opinion varies from most in that I did not enjoy Scott Stapp's voice when listening to Creed. To me it kept interfering with what I thought was a really good band playing.

Exit Stapp, enter Miles Kennedy and Creed's former instrumentalists have found a voice that finally compliments their playing in my ears. His voice is more akin to Chris Connell than Stapp and together the new band Alter Bridge shows a lot of potential to me. I say potential because this first album, while great, lacks an indefinable cohesiveness that comes with a band playing together for a while. All this leads me to wait for their sophomore album with much anticipation.

5 out of 5 stars Better than Creed. Really........2007-06-06

This is really a simple album to review. I loved all 3 of Creed's albums, but this album is far, far better than those. Rougher, louder, heavier, Tremonti is absolutely out of his mind on this album. Metalingus might be one of the best songs from this gang, Stapp or no Stapp, and it doesn't even have a guitar solo! Buy it, buy it, you will not be disappointed.

5 out of 5 stars WOW!!.......2007-04-22

This is defiently a DAMN good band!! This singer fits as well as stapp did in my own opinion, has his own feel like stapp does as well. When comparing Stapps new record to this one i say this one beats stapp buy a star and a half.

5 out of 5 stars Great Album!.......2007-03-15

The number one question in most people's minds when they hear of Alter Bridge is; Do they sound like Creed? The answer is no, not really. The song that sounds most like Creed is Open Your Eyes and none of the other songs on the cd sound like Open Your Eyes. Creed had an alternative streak (Say I, Wrong Way, etc) where as Alter Bridge sounds like straight up rock n' roll. The guitar work on this album is VERY VERY good! Myles Kennedy has a great voice. He'll shock you with some of his work, for instance, his last notes on Find the Real. Myles is a tenor and sounds very different compared to Scott Stapp. He's actually quite a better singer than Stapp too. Maybe a little less feel (for some people) but much better singing. The highlights here and when I mean highlights I mean you have to hear these songs at least once in your life are;
Find the Real--Great intro with double bass and solos thrown throughout each and every chorus and solo in the bridge! Blew me away when I first heard it. Hard and heavy but not fast.
One Day Remains--More modern rock than hard rock with an alternative feel. Very and I mean very fast verse riff with a huge flurry of notes. Cool little sweep solo in the bridge. It's a little repetitive but the amazing verse and anthemic chorus will have you singing along.
Metallingus--Very hard and heavy and fast. The closest thing to metal on this cd. The bridge has a very cool start/stop heavy riff with some amazing runs thrown in. Closes out with double bass and heavy guitars that remind me of the bridge.
Broken Wings--Tremonti writes beautiful ballads and here's a darker more bleak sounding ballad than anything he's ever written. Great bluesy fingerpicked intro with a simple verse and chorus that make you feel the MELODY sung by Myles Kennedy. Oh, and even though the guitar work is "simple" it's actually quite complex with some weird sounding chords and octave chord slides that spice up the chorus without making the guitar the highlight.
Shed My Skin--Softer ballad type song. The lyrics are what really get you on this one.
The End is Here--Epic and awesome. Explodes from the verse to the chorus. Middle Eastern sounding with again great runs and riffs. Heavy like Find the Real in the verse (but in the chorus) and with a darker feel than Find the Real. This is THE track on the cd.
The rest of the cd is not as impressive but these tracks are amazing! Alter Bridge definitely has a harder and heavier vibe to them then Creed did. The cd is a mix of hard rock and a softer (but not soft) rock. The guitar work (again) NEEDS to be heard. This cd had me mesmerized for a couple months. The only complaint would be that they need to follow in the vein of Find the Real and The End is Here more than Shed My Skin and a couple other tracks if they really want to do something distinctive from the TYPE of music they've made in the past. Again every song on here is great but it sounds like Alter Bridge tried to move in one direction and then had to compromise a little (with their record label). Their next cd should be all them and I can't wait to hear it.

5 out of 5 stars Bridge to Success.......2007-03-12

After purchasing this cd used a couple of years ago because I didn't want to get burned on another cd that was suppossed to be great with a new lead singer. I was very surprised with this cd and after repeated listens it just got better and better. It usually gets added to my mix when I do a MP3 mix for my car audio. It's just one of those cd's that doesn't get tiring after a couple of listens like so many others do today. It will intersting to see what their sophmore release will be like if they ever work through whatever problems that they've encountered since this release. Time will tell. If you haven't picked this up because Scott Stapp isn't singing lead on it then you're sorely missing out on some great music.
Weathered
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Great
  • Weathered Creed
  • Creed releases their best effort
  • Weathered is a classic album
  • Weathered is one last breath...as it ends up Creeds Swan Song.
 Weathered
Creed
Manufacturer: Wind-Up
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
Post GrungePost Grunge | American Alternative | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rock | Styles | Music
Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Hard RockHard Rock | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Human Clay
  2. My Own Prison
  3. The Great Divide
  4. Greatest Hits (w/ Bonus DVD)
  5. One Day Remains

ASIN: B00005OM4M
Release Date: 2001-11-20

Tracks:

  1. Bullets
  2. Freedom Fighter
  3. Who's Got My Back?
  4. Signs
  5. One Last Breath
  6. My Sacrifice
  7. Stand Here With Me
  8. Weathered
  9. Hide
  10. Don't Stop Dancing
  11. Lullaby

Amazon.com

The multiplatinum kings of MOR nu metal have gotten a bit more aggressive and intense--to fine effect--on some of Weathered's 11 stellar, radio-friendly tracks. For those who prefer the soft side of singer/stud Scott Stapp and his cohorts, there are the melodic and soaring "Hide" and "Don't Stop Dancing." But more interesting is "Bullets," which finds Stapp raging before a surprisingly heavy and intense musical backdrop. Other highlights include the Seattle-sound throwback "Freedom Fighter," the Zeppelinesque "Who's Got My Back," and the disc's first single, "My Sacrifice." The effects-laden, passionate "Signs" contrasts nicely with the laid-back, world-weary title track and "Lullaby." Ultimately, Weathered gently expands the seemingly fail-proof formula. --Katherine Turman

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Great.......2006-11-14

This is just a great cd. Love them or hate them, Creed made a stellar cd here. The absolutely perfect "Stand here with me", "My Sacrifice", "Weathered", "Signs", "Freedom Fighter" are all as infectious as they are quality! Just great stuff. Sure, there are a couple slow points, but that is to be expected.
This is just an excellently (if not overly) produced and executed cd. Thats all there is too it.

5 out of 5 stars Weathered Creed.......2006-07-01

When the rock group Creed stepped out of the studio for the third time, there were doubts about the band's third album. But once the record's first single: "My Sacrafice" hit the airwaves, it was clear that WEATHERED was going to be an amazing piece of work. And it was, ALL of the record's tracks stand out in their sound, lyrics, and originality. This time around, Stapp delved further into his Native American herritage for new sounds. This is quite apparent for the track "Who's Got My Back?". Amie Stapp along with the Tallahassee Boys' Choir joins her husband in peforming beautiful vocals for the song "Don't Stop Dancing". Stapp also brings forth his political lyrics again as he had for Creed's debut record. These words took on new meaning after the tragedy that struck our country just two months before WEATHERED's release. These words are really "in your ears" for the tracks "Freedom Fighter" and "Signs". Drummer Scott Phillips takes on a bigger role as well, for he produces more melodies and harmonies for he also performs keyboards. Mark Tremonti also performs bass as well as the guitar for this album, giving even more musical sounds than the group had ever produced. He backs off the distortion and dismisses it entirely for the beautiful accoustic performance on the track "Lullaby". When distortion is used, Tremonti balances it out with a clean guitar tone and this is apparent for most of the tracks. WEATHERED is Creed's most musical and best work. This record is a must have.

5 out of 5 stars Creed releases their best effort.......2006-06-13

By the time 2001 had come around, Creed had established themselves as one of the top Rock bands in the world. Their 1997 debut album, "My Own Prison" showed the great potential that this band had. "My Own Prison" was an album with a very raw sound that was dominated by guitars. While "My Own Prison" demonstrated a very strong Rock sound, one problem was that the guitars of Mark Tremonti often overpowered Scott Stapp's vocals. As a result, we never really saw the full potential of Stapp's vocals on "My Own Prison". A unique thing about "My Own Prison" is that the band demonstrated a strong Christian influence. On the band's sophomore effort - "Human Clay" they moved away from the Christian influence and polished up their sound. However despite the fact that the Christian influence wasn't nearly as prevalent, there still was high quality in the music. Most importantly, Stapp's vocals and Tremonti's guitars stuck an equilibrium allowing each of them to showcase their amazing talents. As a result I had "Human Clay" as the Best Album of the year 2000. Now Creed faced the difficult task of following up an amazing album. This follow-up was 2001's "Weathered" - and despite being criticized by many, this album surpasses "Human Clay" in terms of quality. The only thing that prevents this from being the Best Album of 2001 is that U2 released their own masterpiece - "All That You Can't Leave Behind" (my pick for Best Album of 2001).

There are two major changes that happen on this album. First up, Bassist Brian Marshall is no longer with the band - leaving Creed as a trio (Stapp, Tremonti, and Scott Phillips). Bass duties are now picked up flawlessly by Mark Tremonti. The second big change is that Creed mixes things up more on this album. Creed isn't afraid to improvise and experiment on this effort. They move away from the classic guitar formula they used on the first two albums and even make significant use of keyboards (in which the duties are picked up by Drummer Scott Phillips).

Here is a review of each of the tracks:

"Bullets": I admit, when I first heard this track - it did not impress me. It still doesn't impress me. I found this song to be a raw, guitar sound that seemed a cross between heavy metal and punk rock. I think this is the weakest track of the album. However, I still have to give Creed some credit for trying something different. Overall, this song is going to showcase Tremonti.

"Freedom Fighter": This song still also has a raw, hard-rocking grunge-like sound that Creed fans are accustomed to. This song gives Stapp more of a chance to showcase his vocals. This song didn't impress me much each.

"Who's Got My Back?": After a slow start to the album, it is on the third track where things really pick up. Creed assembles a 8 minute 25 second masterpiece. One of the highlights of the song is the use of a Cherokee Indian Prayer at the beginning and the end. The use of keyboards is very prevalent in this song. While this isn't necessarily a song about the American Indian, the lyrics can relate to the plight they went through ("There's Still Time; All that has been devastated; Can be recreated"). This song is a masterpiece and really demonstrates why Creed became on of the elite bands in music.

"Signs": This song goes back more toward Creed's trademark grunge-like sound. Here is another example where Tremonti's guitars and Stapp's vocals are in great balance. Many criticized this song, but I really enjoyed. Listen to how Stapp digs deep on the chorus by singing "Come with me...". This song discusses "Signs" that effect society today - age, spirituality, sex, and racism.

"One Last Breath": Creed "tones it down" for this song. Stapp's vocals are incredible and contain real emotion as Stapp reflects on the things that happened to him in his life as he thinks his life is over (as he knows it). This song contains some spirtitual references to God - particulary "Somewhere in His grace; I cried out heaven save me". There even is almost an orchestral quality to the melody at parts of this song. Perhaps the only thing this song is guilty of is that this song was overplayed too much on the radio.

"My Sacrifice": "One Last Breath" has gentle segue into this song. Like "One Last Breath", this song was overplayed a lot on conventional radio. However, musically this is one of the better tracks on this collection. Stapp's vocals shine on this track as well. The orchestral quality to the music also exists on this track. Phillips has some great drumming.

"Stand Here With Me": Another solid song. Tremonti delivers some of the best guitar riffs on any Creed album. Unlike in the early days, Tremonti delivers the guitar work without sacrificing Stapp's vocals.

"Weathered": This song deals with how the hardships of life eventually wears down someone. This is a song in which Stapp delivers another amazing performance - making this song worthy of a title track. Creed mixes up the tempo on this song - and it works.

"Hide": Creed continues to tone it down. This song demonstrates a typical post-grunge radio-friendly sound, but once again Stapp delivers a flawless performance.

"Don't Stop Dancing": This song also demonstrates the post-grunge radio-friendly sound. Not a bad song. Unfortunately it demonstrates much of the cookie-cutter sound that was soon to infiltrate conventional radio. This features a guest vocal from Stapp's sister Amy.

"Lullaby": While the album starts with a very raw and hard sound - things are "weathered" down by the end to this very soft and gentle sound. As indicated by the title, this is a lullaby.

Creed demonstrated a lot on this collection. It is too bad that this would be their last album before splitting. This collection is highly recommended.

5 out of 5 stars Weathered is a classic album .......2006-05-30

Creed are one of the best bands to come out of America in the last ten years there was just something about the four of them they all just clicked and never made one bad song that's what made them so great which brings me to this album.

So how the hell do you follow up on an album that just sold 11 million copies and is creeds best album human clay, well you write tracks like bullets, my sacrifice, who's got my back and freedom fighter this album is amazing I really cant find the words to explain how great this band was this cd weathered is has strong has human clay the lyrics are amazing the guitar riffs are great from start to finish there is not one bad song on this album which is very rare to find these days from bands.
Its been five years since this album was released and still sounds fresh to me I wish I had heard of creed earlier than I did but they were never that big in England but I caught My Sacrifice on a music channel and I just thought that song is amazing and I was hooked on creed from that moment and got all there albums thery are really an inspiring band and I will always love creed until the day I die so id like to thank the great Mark Tremonti, Scoot Stapp, Scott Phillips and Brian Marshall For giving us great music to listen to Thank You.

5 out of 5 stars Weathered is one last breath...as it ends up Creeds Swan Song........2006-02-10

Creed's third studio release "Weathered" marked two landmarks for the band: It all but solidified their status as a band that would consistently release great rock albums, and later be hailed with the likes of Led Zeppelin and Van Halen. It also marked the end of the band, for it was thier last studio release. Creed's magic would be cut short before it could ever be fully realized...but at the same time, perhaps we got the core of the band's potential. With that, the album "Weathered" was a nice way to go out!

With Weathered me move into a sharper metal sound that isn't to harsh but does not cuddle the listener. The first three tracks take us into a whole new world with "Bullets" "Freedom Fighter" and the haunting, moody track that explodes with emotion in the chorus "Who's got my back?". It wouldn't be Creed without a little power ballad, so "My Sacrifice" has become a radio friendly staple that's a fun listen. "Don't Stop Dancing" is an excellent soft tune that gives the album some balance. 11 Tracks in all, it's never enough, it's what we got, so we'll cherish these final songs from what was one of the greatest bands to emerge from the 90's.
Russian Divine Liturgy
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Excellent option at good price
  • It Touches the Soul
  • Performance is fine, but recording and liner notes are poor
  • Inexpensive marvel from naxos
  • Is like being in Heaven!
 Russian Divine Liturgy
Alexander Andreyevich Arkhangel'sky , Russian Orthodox Chant , Alexander Tikhonovich Grechaninov , Ledkovsky , Alexei Fydorovich Lvov , P. Mironositsky , Apostol Nikolaev-Strumsky , Stepan Smolensky , Igumen Mitrofan , and Novospassky Monastery Choir
Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Sacred & ReligiousSacred & Religious | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems
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Similar Items:
  1. Russian Chant for Vespers
  2. Russian Medieval Chant
  3. Chants de la Liturgie Slavonne
  4. Orthodox Chants from Russia
  5. Russian Church Music

ASIN: B000053W45
Release Date: 2001-02-20

Tracks:

  1. Meeting And Vesting Of Bishop
  2. Eis Polla Eti, Despota
  3. Great Litany
  4. Bless The Lord, O My Soul
  5. The Only Begotten Son
  6. Come, Let Us Worship And Fall Down Before Christ
  7. The Trisagion
  8. Prokeimenon
  9. Alleluia
  10. Cherubic Hymn
  11. The Nicene Creed
  12. A Mercy Of Peace
  13. The Hymn To The Theotokos
  14. Praise The Lord From The Heavens!
  15. Psalm CXX (Mironisitsky)
  16. Blessed By the Name Of The Lord, Henceforth And For Ever More
  17. Great Doxology

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Excellent option at good price.......2007-03-25

Ortodox liturgic music is sometimes as difficult as it can be considering the fact it belong to a very different liturgy no matter how christian it is.
This little gem can be helpful to understand not only this very important part of russian music but the soul of russian religiosity, guided by the superb performance of Novospassky Monastery Choir, that reminded me other great effort in the same way: the Choir of Santo Domingo de Silos Monastery.
Not always Naxos is the best choice, but in this case is definitely a must for those interested on religious music.
Five stars.

5 out of 5 stars It Touches the Soul.......2005-05-02

This cd is balanced with the melodic strains of the choir, and the rich, deep solos above it. It is an inspiration and I highly recommend it.

2 out of 5 stars Performance is fine, but recording and liner notes are poor.......2004-10-13

RUSSIAN DIVINE LITURGY is a performance by the Novospassky Monastery Choir of the Russian Orthodox liturgy celebrated by a bishop. The music of the Russian Orthodox liturgy consists only of the human voice singing in the Russian Church Slavonic language (a redaction of Old Church Slavonic made easier for speakers of Russian to pronounce). No instrumentation is included.

There is a great deal of passion in this performance as in the "Trisagion". There is also grace and sweetness, as in the "Great Litany" or the recitation of the Nicene Creed. This recording portrays those aspects of Orthodox worship which have wowed members of other denominations with their beauty and profound sincerity.

Though the performance was fine, the sound quality of this recording is unimpressive. Though a DDD studio recording, the engineers did not really explore the space of the venue and the voices are often muddled and indistinguishable. This probably would have sounded better in a church than in a studio with these engineers.

The liner notes are also of rather poor quality, as is unfortunately quite common with Naxos discs. There is no libretto, just excepts from several of the portions and descriptions. Church Slavonic text is missing entirely. The names of the Ukrainian cities Kyiv and Lviv are spelled according to the (often considered offensive) Russian manner of Kiev and L'vov. The commentary, which do not appear professionally edited, are uncredited.

If you are interested in Church Slavonic liturgy in music, I would recommend Arvo Part's setting of the "Kanon Pokajanen" penitence text. The disc released by ECM New Series features a detailed libretto with the Church Slavonic, fine translations, and an essay about this portion of Orthodox liturgy. Naxos has released here an authentic and sincere performance of the liturgy, but the poor liner notes and sound quality do little to recommend it.

5 out of 5 stars Inexpensive marvel from naxos.......2003-07-16

As someone new to choral sacred music, the price of this CD allowed me to experiment without risking to much financially.
I have never heard Russian Orthodox music before. It is more exuberant in many ways than western massesbut also has moments of serenity. This CD contains an amalgam of music from different cenuries which all fits together surprisingly well. The choir sings powerfully from start to fini. Highly recommended to anyone interested in the music of other cultures.

5 out of 5 stars Is like being in Heaven!.......2003-06-29

Beautiful version of the Orthodox Liturgy. If you aren't Orthodox, this might convert you. If you already are, it will bring tears of joy to your eyes.
Portraits Of Freedom: Music of Aaron Copland and Roy Harris
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • The True Spirit Of America
  • Great Lesser-known Masterpieces
  • James Earl Jones Is SUPURB
  • Great Fourth of July album
  • Perfect collection of patriotic fare.
 Portraits Of Freedom: Music of Aaron Copland and Roy Harris
Aaron Copland , Roy Harris , Gerard Schwarz , Seattle Symphony Orchestra , James Earl Jones , and Seattle Chorale
Manufacturer: Delos Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by CoplandAll Works by Copland | Copland, Aaron | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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Similar Items:
  1. Copland conducts Copland
  2. Copland: Old American Songs/Canticle Of Freedom/Four Motets
  3. Copland: Music for Films
  4. Aaron Copland: Lincoln Portrait; Old American Songs
  5. Copland: The Music of America

ASIN: B0000006YT
Release Date: 1994-05-03

Tracks:

  1. Fanfare For The Common Man
  2. Lincoln Portrait
  3. Canticle Of Freedom
  4. An Outdoor Overture
  5. American Creed: Free To Dream
  6. American Creed: Free To Build
  7. When Johnny Comes Marching Home

Amazon.com

This is a mixture of choral and orchestral music by two great American composers, music that can only be described as patriotic. But don't let that keep you away from Copland's heartbreaking Lincoln Portrait or Roy Harris's much-neglected American Creed. James Earl Jones supplies the narration in Lincoln Portrait. American Creed is filled with Harris's usual open harmonies and melodic expansiveness and is actually a very complex triple fugue. The miking for this entire recording isn't as close to the orchestra or clear as it could be, but this is a great collection nonetheless. --Paul Cook

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars The True Spirit Of America.......2006-05-18

It is often the case that the true spirit of America can be found in the artists it has given the world throughout history. And no composer embodies our nation's spirit much better than Aaron Copland, as can be gauged on this Delos recording of works by him and fellow American composer Roy Harris, as performed by the Seattle Symphony Orchestra under music director Gerard Schwarz.

The true essence of patriotism, a term too often used for less-than-honorable ends by certain political operatives throughout history, is very evident in both Copland's and Harris' works. Harris is represented by the intensely proud two-part work "American Creed", and his 1935 overture "When Johnny Comes Marching Home", based on the famous World War I song. It is also evident in Copland's rarely heard "Canticle Of Freedom", which here is sung by the Seattle Symphony Chorale.

It is in the three popular Copland pieces--"Fanfare For The Common Man"; "Lincoln Portrait"; and "An Outdoor Overture"--that the best of America lies. The towering brass chorale of "Fanfare" symbolizes, as its title surely indicates, the ability of the common man to achieve the uncommon; while "An Outdoor Overture", written in the 1930s for the Manhattan High School of Music & Art, celebrates American youth. And then there's "Lincoln Portrait", with the words of our 16th president spoken by James Earl Jones, one of our country's greatest actors and voices, with great strength and authority, allowing us to know that while we may be the greatest nation on Earth, we can ALWAYS be better. Schwarz and the Seattle Symphony provide masterful performances throughout this stunning 1992 recording. This is highly recommended for anyone wanting to know the true spirit of our nation beyond the constant and often wreckless political rhetoric that so often abounds here.

5 out of 5 stars Great Lesser-known Masterpieces.......2005-11-03

Portraits of Freedom is a CD featuring works by Aaron Copland and Roy Harris which have a special emphasis on democracy. Not just a "hack" American music CD, features include the very well known to some virtually unknown compositions making this a welcome addition to the Copland/Harris recorded music oeuvre.

Fanfare for the Common Man brings nothing new, but it is such a great miniature. Less recorded is the Lincoln Portrait. Copland opens with a slow triumphant fanfare melody which gives way to a faster "Camptown Races" melody and brilliantly weaves the two together. The piece ends with a dramatic reading by James Earl Jones.

Canticle of Freedom, rarely heard, features chorus. The music and text are interesting enough to wonder why it has been neglected. Along with the Outdoor Overture, Copland uses not only uses his trademark rhythms and harmonies, but dissonance is judiciously placed to give his music an American experience.

Roy Harris' American Creed and When Johnny Comes Marching Home are also rarely heard, nonetheless recorded. Harris' music is a bit more ponderous than that of Copland, and while Harris sticks with more classical formal designs, it is interesting to note the many harmonic and orchestration similarities which exist between the two composers. Harris' energetic "When Johnny..." is also very interesting, especially when compared to the more famous American Salute by Morton Gould.

The liner notes are voluminous accounts into the background of Copland. You really get the gist of how close he was to music and patriotism and how that evolved throughout the 20th Century. The Seattle Symphony plays well on this disk; you can tell they have a real feel of the music. While you can find better recordings of Fanfare and the Outdoor Overture, you can't beat this Lincoln Portrait, and you probably won't find the other works anywhere else, especially so well performed. Copland was serious about music and democracy and it shows in these works; the lesser known ones are greatly eclipsed by his more famous works, and so you probably have to be a Copland junkie to buy this CD. In that case, this will be an easy buy for you!

5 out of 5 stars James Earl Jones Is SUPURB.......2004-10-02

I have listened to several recordings of the Lincoln Portait narrated by Henry Fonda, Carl Sandberg and Katherine Hepburn. James Earl Jones surpases all of them by a wide margin. Every word James speaks comes from his heart and it is a moving experience.

An interesting note: Every speaker since James reads the following line, "government of the people, by the people, and for the people." with the emphasis on the words "of", "by" and "for". When James reads it he shift the emphasis to the word "people" each time and it makes an impressive difference. He is masterful. I've must have played this piece at least 10 times since I received it a week ago.

Buy it!

Jeff

4 out of 5 stars Great Fourth of July album.......2003-01-11

If you buy this CD, you'll probably do so for Aaron Copland's "Lincoln Portrait." You won't be disappointed, either, for this is one of the best renditions of that particular symphonic war-horse in print. It's well performed, and James Earl Jones's majestic voice transcends the kitschier aspects of Copland's narration.

"Fanfare for the Common Man" is also here in all its brassy glory, although if you're like me you've heard it so often it gives you a headache. But in all likelihood you haven't heard the other Copland works on this CD: "Canticle of Freedom" and the seldom-performed "An Outdoor Overture." "An Outdoor Overture" is second-tier Copland -- a pleasant symphonic poem, nothing too remarkable. "Canticle of Freedom," on the other hand, exemplifies Copland's worst tendencies as a composer; most of it is just noisy and not musically interesting.

The real surprise here is Roy Harris's three-movement "American Creed," which is both inspiring and musically sound. It is a patriotic symphony that mostly avoids bombast, and it ought to be performed far more often. Harris is a much underrated composer, and this is one of his best works.

On the whole, this CD is a smashing good classical music collection for a Flag Day or Fourth of July holiday -- or for any time you just want to celebrate being an American.

5 out of 5 stars Perfect collection of patriotic fare........1999-10-14

The inclusion of Copland's "Fanfare" and "A Lincoln Portrait" into a CD such as this is a no-brainer, but these recordings are the best of their kind--tremendous sound, and the quintessential narrator in Jones to complete it. Schwarz also blesses us with one of Copland's little-known choral works that sends a powerful patriotic message, and the "Outdoor Overture" is simply Copland at his jovial best at the prime of his composing career. The selected Harris works add further impact to the disc: the only recording available of "American Creed," along with Harris' unforgettable interpretation of "When Johnny Comes Marching Home," round it out wonderfully. The Roy Harris works may be the true highlight of the disc--if that's possible. Another splendid job by Schwarz and the Seattle Symphony.
The Creed
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • "Awesome" by BJ
  • The Creed by Avalon
  • not the best of them, boring.. only liked a few..
  • Too much of the same
  • Awesome Album
 The Creed
Avalon
Manufacturer: Sparrow
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
GospelGospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
Christian Contemporary MusicChristian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Testify to Love: The Very Best of Avalon
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ASIN: B0001BS3HU
Release Date: 2004-02-24

Tracks:

  1. All
  2. The Creed
  3. Abundantly
  4. I Wanna Be With You
  5. You Were There
  6. Far Away From Here
  7. Overjoyed
  8. I Bring It To You
  9. The Good Way
  10. Renew Me

Amazon.com

Any sports fan worth his tray of nachos will tell you that a winning team should never mess much with its lineup. So you'll forgive Avalon fans if they approach The Creed with a little trepidation. After all, half of the award-winning group has left for other ventures and new arrivals Greg Long and Melissa Greene now join Jody McBrayer and Janna Long as the new Avalon. But like the Patriots and Yankees who change faces with the same successful results, Avalon has yet another winner with The Creed. Vocal chemistry, always critical to ensemble groups like Avalon, appears as stable as ever with Long adding his powerful vocals and soprano Greene capping the high end with style. In fact, Long is showcased on "I Wanna Be With You," a definite radio-hit-in-the-making with an irresistible sing-along chorus, as well as the title track, a powerful statement of faith forged by the group's vocal tour-de-force. And like a true winning organization, Avalon called upon the best resources with producers Brown Bannister, Charlie Peacock, and Tedd T., and the best songwriting by approaching 20 different writers in search of material. The end result will no doubt be more awards, more radio hits, and more lives touched by this group's smooth but soulful delivery. --Michael Lyttle

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars "Awesome" by BJ.......2007-03-03

Avalon is my favorite group ever, and I love every CD they release. THE CREED is no different, but without founding member Michael Passons, it just isn't the same. "All" is my favorite song on the album--a song about surrendering ourselves to God. "The Creed" is the first song that newest addition Greg Long gets the spotlight in. His voice isn't really bad, it's just not the best I've ever heard. Still, it works for Avalon. "Abundantly" gives Janna credit for another great vocal. She just does it again and again and again! Great lyrics, definitely a favorite. "I Wanna Be With You" is Greg's solo song--I would have to admit that this one is REALLY catchy! I loved it the minute I heard it. "You Were There" is Jody's solo song and is simply AMAZING!!! Tied for 1st on this CD! "Far Away From Here" is slower at first but then gets going on the chorus. The beat is catchy and definitely another highlight. "Overjoyed", a song taken from Janna Long's solo album, makes me wonder how anyone could hit the high notes that Janna does. It sounds like something that would be on 2001's "Oxygen". Melissa Greene's solo song, "I Bring It To You" is a worship song that is another one of my favorites, as is "The Good Way". "Renew Me" closes things out on a slower note with specactular vocal performance.
So, even without Michael Passons, this CD still deserves 5 stars and should be purchased by anyone who likes Christian music. GREAT JOB, AVALON!!!

5 out of 5 stars The Creed by Avalon.......2007-01-12

Everybody should have this CD - it is the best they've ever done.

3 out of 5 stars not the best of them, boring.. only liked a few.........2006-12-17

I have most of avalon's CD's, and i hate to say this one was by far the worst! The only songs i liked were All, I Wanna Be With You, I bring it To You, The Good Way, and Far Away From Here. The rest are boring, especially The Creed. Don't even know why they put that on there! I don't like Greg Long! I wish the blonde guy had never quitt. He was good. Greg Long just doesn't fit in with Avalon.

Stand, Oxygen, and In A Different Light are the best Avalon CD's.

2 out of 5 stars Too much of the same.......2005-10-05

With the vocal talent this group has, they could be doing so much more. I've listened to Avalon since they first came out & liked many songs & loved a few. But I listened to this last CD with one ear and 1/4 of my brain--the leftover was playing a web video game and surfing the net. Avalon simply doesn't move me because every song's been done before--not the same words, mind you, but tempo, style, instrumentals, tonality, etc.--same, same, same, and then some more of the same, etc. I guess if I hadn't recently been turned on to Eva Cassidy (may she rest in Peace) and her tremendous abilities, maybe the monotony of the Avalon performances wouldn't have hit me so hard.

I'm giving this a two because it's not a horrible or even a bad CD--it's downright wonderful compared to a lot of stuff out there. It's pleasant enough even in it's sameness. But I think Avalon can deliver more in diversity of performance, song choice and arrangements, instead of relying on the same formula over and over again. They haven't grown up musically & it's time they do.

Obviously I'm not going to change the mind of anyone who likes the comfortable formula Avalon delivers, and if you, in fact, DEPEND on that formula, you won't be disappointed by this CD. However, those looking to see something new from this talented group will be sorely disappointed.

PS If you think I didn't like this CD because I was occupied by other things, it was my 2nd attempt to listen to it. I couldn't even finish the first listen, I was so bored with my FULL attention to it. Sorry.

5 out of 5 stars Awesome Album.......2005-07-10

My favorite all-time album. I can't get tired of this cd. All the songs hit the mark. A great album that provides encouragement in all aspects of one's life. Greg Long is a perfect addition to the group. I just hope he will continue to record solo albums on the side. If you get a chance - see Avalon in concert.
Handel: The Masterworks (Box Set)
Average customer rating: Not rated
    		Handel: The Masterworks (Box Set)

    Manufacturer: Brilliant Classics
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    TriosTrios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
    All Works by HandelAll Works by Handel | Handel, George Frideric | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    Concerto GrossiConcerto Grossi | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
    Trio SonatasTrio Sonatas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
    SuitesSuites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
    Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
    FluteFlute | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
    OboeOboe | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
    RecorderRecorder | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
    ViolinViolin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
    Baroque (c.1600-1750)Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
    CantatasCantatas | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    Baroque (c.1600-1750)Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    ItalianItalian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    OratoriosOratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    AnthemsAnthems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    CantatasCantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    HymnsHymns | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    OratoriosOratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    PassionsPassions | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    Blowout Box SetsBlowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
    More Titles at Least 20% OffMore Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
    All Classical Music BlowoutAll Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
    Handel, George FridericHandel, George Frideric | ( H ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
    Opera & VocalOpera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
    Brilliant ClassicsBrilliant Classics | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
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    ASIN: B00062FLI8
    Release Date: 2004-11-30

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