After over a decade of absence from the stage, Creed’s triumphant return to touring was nothing short of spectacular, and their stop at the PPL Center in Allentown, PA, proved to be a momentous occasion for rock enthusiasts. The ARE YOU READY? tour is aptly named, as Scott Stapp (lead vocals), Mark Tremonti (lead guitar), Scott Phillips (drums), and Brian Marshall (bass) showed the world they are more than ready to reclaim their place in the rock pantheon.
From the first note of “Bullets” to the final sing-along anthem of “My Sacrifice,” Creed delivered a high-energy performance that left fans awestruck. The band’s signature post-grunge sound resonated through the arena, striking a nostalgic chord with longtime fans while captivating a new generation of listeners.
Scott Stapp’s powerful vocals were the heart of the evening, channeling the raw intensity that made Creed a household name in the late ’90s and early 2000s. His charisma and energy were matched by Mark Tremonti’s blistering guitar solos, which brought the crowd to their feet. Tremonti’s technical prowess shone brightly in tracks like “What If” and “One Last Breath,” with his riffs perfectly balancing aggression and melody.
Scott Phillips and Brian Marshall anchored the performance with precision, laying down a solid rhythmic foundation that pulsed through the crowd. Phillips’ drumming on tracks like “Higher” and Marshall’s bass groove on “Are You Ready?” underscored the synergy between the band members, proving they haven’t lost their chemistry despite their long hiatus.
The stage production was a spectacle in itself. Creed incorporated breathtaking visuals and pyrotechnics that elevated their music to a visceral level. Fireworks burst during the climactic moments of “With Arms Wide Open,” while vivid LED screens showcased striking visuals that complemented the themes of hope, faith, and redemption woven into their music. The interplay of light and sound created an immersive atmosphere that transported fans into Creed’s universe.
The audience at the PPL Center was a diverse mix of original fans and newcomers, united by their passion for Creed’s music. The band’s interaction with the crowd, particularly during stripped-down renditions of “Don’t Stop Dancing” and “Faceless Man,” created an intimate connection despite the arena setting. Fans roared along to every word, turning the venue into a massive choir during the encore.
Creed’s reunion after an 11-year hiatus is a testament to their enduring impact on rock music. This tour is more than a comeback; it’s a celebration of their legacy. Their performance in Allentown showed that Creed remains as relevant and dynamic as ever, delivering not just nostalgia but a reaffirmation of their musical artistry.
Creed’s performance at the PPL Center was a masterclass in rock showmanship. The ARE YOU READY? tour is a must-see for anyone who appreciates heartfelt lyrics, powerful melodies, and a band that knows how to put on a truly memorable show. Allentown fans were treated to a night they won’t soon forget, and Creed proved they are not just back—they’re better than ever.
SETLIST:
Bullets
Freedom Fighter
Torn
Are You Ready?
Never Die
My Own Prison
What If
Say I
Unforgiven
Inside Us All
One
What’s This Life For
With Arms Wide Open
Higher
Encore:
One Last Breath
My Sacrifice
GALLERY: Creed at PPL Center in Allentown, PA (December 2, 2024)
