Concert in your area for Rock, Metal, and Indie & Alt.
The band formed in 1994, featuring lead vocalist Ian Thornley, guitarist Brian Doherty, bassist Dave Henning and drummer Forrest Williams.The band began performing extensively at various clubs and venues in Boston and Cambridge, US, becoming a prominent act on the local scene. Having developed a strong live sound, they eventually garnered the attention of Atlantic Records, who signed the band in 1997. Soon after, their debut album, “In Loving Memory Of…” appeared, featuring the top ten single, “The Oaf.” The band found commercial success in Canada, whilst also performing well in the US.
Their second record, “Pleasure & the Greed,” was released in 2001. However, unfortunately for Big Wreck, the album was a commercial flop due to poor marketing, failing to live up to the success of their debut. Following the record’s failure, the band ultimately broke up, with Ian Thornley launching a solo career, with the other members also being involved with new projects.
Ten years later, the members of Big Wreck reunited, embarking on a successful tour that helped reignite interest in the band. The band returned to the studio in 2010, recording their third album, “Albatross,” which appeared later in 2012. The album reached number five in the Canadian charts, prompting a nationwide tour that also saw them perform at Toronto, Canada’s Sound Academy for their ‘Official Super Bowl XLVI Party.’ Continuing their success, the band returned to the studio again for 2014’s “Ghosts,” also peaking at number five in the Canadian charts.
Angst and teenage emotion colored my image of Creed. If you grew up in the early 2000’s, you probably slow-danced to Creed at your high school prom. "With Arms Wide Open" would queue up and you finally worked up the courage to ask that pretty Senior girl to dance. She said yes, because she was nice, but it’s all the same to you. For those 4 odd minutes, you were floating to the voice of Scott Stapp and bass laden guitars.
This rosy memory is quickly replaced for anyone who has seen Creed live. Many forget that these guys come from a grugier time in rock and have as many ties to Metal as they do Adult Contemporary (whatever the heck that is). I had the chance to revise my perception of Creed in 2012 at Dallas’ Verizon Theater.
After seeing their live show, the same tired Creed jokes didn’t to make sense anymore. Their sound is heavy, almost sinister, for a band so often labeled as borderline Christian Rock. I was supremely impressed with the drumming of Scott Phillips as he beat down one of the most intricate drum sets I’ve ever seen. The speed-metal influenced guitar riffs are overlooked on their recordings but take center stage during the live performance. My face was nearly melted off during "Bullets." Even the songs we’ve all heard too many times like "Higher" came off as fresh.
I left with a new appreciation for Creed, a true rock band.
Once you Big Wreck, you can never go back. Every fan of Big Wreck knows what I mean. There is something special that happens after you've seen them live. You find yourself playing their music over and over and over again without thinking for one second, "Im over this song" or "I think I'll give it a break listening to them" because once you've been bitten by the Big Wreck bug that just isn't an option. I'm not a musician, nor do I have extensive knowledge in the art of music. I do however have a serious passion for music and I know great musicians when I see them. This band isn't for surface music lovers. The deeper the connection you have with music, the more you will understand. Each one of these guys is a master at their craft and it shine's at every show. You will never tire from the words of Ian Thornley set into song. The way in which the words are put into lyrcis is exquisite. When you listen there is a feeling you can see. You're left thinking damn, why can't I describe my feelings like that. There is no faultering in any live performance. Each show is full of energy and sounds amazing. I've seen them many times in one week and I can't say any show was better than the last. They are confident, consistent, and always deliver. If you are a true music lover, don't pass up an opportunity to see these guys live. Trust me, you won't regret it.