Creed, 3 Doors Down & Finger Eleven Review with Photos 9-14-24

   The air was electric at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands, Texas, as fans of rock music flocked to witness a nostalgic evening with Creed, supported by 3 Doors Down and Finger Eleven. The lineup promised a trip down memory lane, and the night did not disappoint, delivering a powerful blend of 90s and early 2000s rock hits that kept the audience on their feet.

    Finger Eleven kicked off the evening with an energetic set that warmed up the crowd, setting the tone for the night. From the first chord to the last, the band delivered a set packed with dynamic hits, and deep cuts that kept fans engaged throughout the night.

    Their set opened with "Above," and it was clear from the outset that the band was here to bring the crowd into the moment. Scott Anderson’s vocals were strong and vibrant, cutting through the layers of guitars and drums with a perfect mix of grit and melody. Further into their set they played their newly released song "Adrenaline" which is the first sample of material from the band’s upcoming 2025 album and debut release following their signing to Better Noise Music. The band was tight as they navigated through the complex arrangements with ease. The driving bass lines of Sean Anderson, and the precise drumming of Steve Molella along with James Black and Rick Jackett’s razor-sharp guitar work gave the set a punchy, aggressive edge that had the audience headbanging from the get-go.

    One of the standout moments of their set was their performance of "One Thing," a slower, more introspective track that showcased the band’s versatility. Anderson’s vocals were hauntingly beautiful, and the stripped-back arrangement allowed the song’s emotional weight to take center stage. Fans responded with heartfelt sing-alongs, creating an intimate and moving atmosphere that contrasted beautifully with the high-energy rockers that dominated the set.

    The band closed their set with "Paralyzer," leaving the audience on a high note as the infectious groove kept the audience moving. The song’s anthemic chorus and driving rhythm were the perfect send-off, capping off a night of rock anthems with a final burst of energy. As the band took their bows and thanked the crowd, it was clear that Finger Eleven had left it all on the stage.

    Overall, Finger Eleven’s performance was a masterclass of their place in rock. They balanced hits with deeper cuts, showcased their musical versatility, and connected with the audience on a personal level. Whether you were there for the nostalgia or to experience the band live for the first time, Finger Eleven delivered a show that was engaging, electrifying, and undeniably fun.

    Next up was 3 Doors Down, who continued to build on the momentum with a set filled with fan favorites and a few surprises. 3 Doors Down proved once again why they are a staple of the rock scene with a high-energy performance that brought the crowd to their feet. As the sun set, the stage was set for a night of nostalgia and rock anthems that have stood the test of time. Fans continued packing the venue, eager to sing along to the hits that have defined the band's career, and 3 Doors Down delivered in spades.

    Opening with "Train," the band immediately had the crowd out of their seats. After a powerful opening 3 Doors Down led the audience into a full rock out of “Its Not My Time.” Brad Arnold’s vocals were as strong as ever, carrying a mix of grit and warmth that perfectly complemented the band’s driving sound and the band’s chemistry was evident as they flawlessly moved from one hit to another. Both Chris Henderson and Chet Roberts guitar work stood out, delivering the familiar riffs that have become synonymous with the band's biggest hits.

    Slower tracks like “Here Without You” showcased a more tender side of the band and which also turned into a massive sing-along. Arnold’s delivery was heartfelt and the crowd responded in kind. Moments like this highlighted the band’s ability to connect with their fans on a personal level, making the large venue feel intimate. Before the song "Away From the Sun," Arnold told the audience that there was a YouTube video of the song that was shot 21 years ago at the Pavilion. He said it is a personal favorite of his that he thinks back to in memories of the shows that have taken place there.

    The setlist was a well-balanced mix of classics and deeper cuts, giving die-hard fans plenty to cheer about while also keeping casual listeners engaged. Midway through the show the band played their unreleased song “Never Look Down” to give the fans a little taste of what may be coming from them in the future. The rhythm section, anchored by Greg Upchurch on drums and Justin Biltonen on bass, was rock solid providing the driving force behind the band’s sound. Each song flowed seamlessly into the next, with just enough banter from Arnold to keep the audience engaged without losing momentum.

     Towards the end of the set Arnold wanted to thank Creed for taking them out on tour with them 25 years ago. Creed was the first band to take them out on tour and they were eternally thankful for that. Now 25 years later they are thankful again that they were able to be out on the reunion tour with them. Arnold also mentioned that he loved playing Texas and while he has been on tour in the state two people had come up to him and asked if they could pray for him. This reinforced his love for Texas and for the warmth of the people, and his final words were God Bless Texas.

    As their set neared the end the crowd erupted as soon as the opening notes of “Kryptonite” hit, one of the band’s biggest hits, and the sing-along that ensued was deafening. The energy was electric, the band fed off the audience’s enthusiasm, pushing the performance to new heights. As the night drew to a close the band saved the best for last with “When I’m Gone,” a song that perfectly encapsulated the theme of unconditional love for when one is being removed from loved one by miles, time or other obstacles. The audience sang every word turning the venue into one giant choir.

    The production values of the concert were impressive yet tasteful, featuring dynamic lighting and video screens that complemented the music without overshadowing it. The visuals added to the overall atmosphere, enhancing the emotional peaks of songs like “When I’m Gone,” which Arnold dedicated to military service members, a touching gesture that resonated deeply with the crowd.

    3 Doors Down’s performance was a powerful reminder of why they have remained relevant in the rock scene for over two decades. They delivered a show that was both a celebration of their legacy and a testament to their enduring appeal. With tight musicianship, a well-crafted setlist and a genuine connection with their fans, 3 Doors Down proved they still have what it takes to captivate audiences and deliver a night of unforgettable rock music.

    Finally, it was time for Creed to take the stage. After years of speculation and anticipation, Creed’s reunion concert was nothing short of a triumphant return to the stage. Fans packed the Pavilion, eager to relive the powerful anthems that defined a generation. As the lights dimmed and the opening chords echoed through the venue, it was clear that Creed was back and they were ready to reclaim their place in the rock music scene.

    From the moment they opened with one of their heaviest songs, "Bullets,” it was as if no time had passed since the band's heyday. Scott Stapp’s commanding presence and signature baritone were on full display and his energy was infectious. The band sounded tight, with Mark Tremonti’s guitar work standing out as a highlight, delivering the crunchy riffs and soaring solos that define Creed's sound. Brian Marshall’s solid bass lines, Eric Friedman adding the rhythm fill on guitar and Scott Phillips’ thunderous drumming all were perfectly in sync. They delivered a setlist packed with fan favorites, drawing from all their albums, with the audience singing along to every word.

    Highlights of the night included an emotionally charged performance of "With Arms Wide Open," which had the crowd waving their arms and swaying in unison. Stapp took a moment to reflect on the song’s meaning and the journey the band has been on, giving fans a glimpse into the personal and professional growth that has brought Creed back together. The introspective "My Own Prison" and the soaring "Higher" also stood out, each song amplified by the audience’s enthusiasm and the band’s undeniable passion.

   One of the most memorable moments of the night came during "One Last Breath," where the entire Pavilion seemed to light up with phone lights and lighters, creating a breathtaking atmosphere that matched the song’s emotional depth. Stapp’s vocals, raw and resonant, delivered the lyrics with a sincerity that struck a chord with everyone in attendance.

    The production was top-notch, with a visually stunning light show and screens that displayed images and videos that complemented the themes of the songs. The band's performance was visually engaging without overshadowing the music, striking a perfect balance between spectacle and substance.

    Throughout the concert, Stapp was charismatic and engaging, frequently expressed his gratitude to the fans, repeatedly acknowledging their role in Creed’s comeback. His interactions with the crowd felt genuine, adding a personal touch to the performance. The band’s camaraderie was evident and there was a clear sense of joy and relief in their playing, a group of musicians who have found their way back to each other and to the stage.

    Creed closed the night with "My Sacrifice," a fitting anthem that encapsulated the evening’s themes of redemption and resilience. As the final chords rang out, the band took a moment to soak in the applause, clearly moved by the overwhelming response from the audience.

    This reunion concert wasn’t just about nostalgia; it was about a band reclaiming their legacy and proving that their music still resonates. Creed’s return to the stage was a powerful reminder of why they were once at the top of the rock world and if this performance is any indication they’re ready to climb even higher. For the fans who have waited years for this moment, Creed delivered a show that was well worth the wait, a celebration of resilience, faith and the enduring power of rock music.

    Overall the night was a triumphant celebration of rock music and a testament to the enduring appeal of these bands. Creed, 3 Doors Down and Finger Eleven each brought their A-game, delivering a concert experience that fans won’t soon forget. For those who grew up with these bands as the soundtrack to their lives, it was a night of nostalgia, joy and unbridled rock energy.

Creed Setlist:
Bullets
Torn
Are You Ready?
Never Die
My Own Prison
Weathered
What If (Tremonti gave away a guitar to an audience member after the song)
Say I
Faceless Man
One
What's This Life For
With Arms Wide Open
Higher
Encore:
One Last Breath
My Sacrifice

3 Doors Down Setlist:
Train
It's Not My Time
Loser
Duck and Run
Here Without You
Time of My Life
Away From the Sun
The Road I'm On
Never Look Down
Let Me Go
Landing in London
Kryptonite
When I'm Gone

Finger Eleven Setlist:
Above
First Time
Quicksand
Together Right
Adrenaline
One Thing
Paralyzer