AMG Review of My Own Prison

Stephen Thomas Erlewine
All Music Guide

Originally released on the band's own label, Creed's debut album, My Own Prison, was re-released on Wind-Up Records in a remixed form. The remix was designed to accentuate the group's powerful post-grunge sound so it could find a crossover audience. Evidently, the gambit was successful since the album became a platinum hit shortly after the title track was issued as a single. Creed don't have an original or distinctive sound -- they basically fall into the category of post-Seattle bands who temper their grunge with a dose of Live earnestness -- but they work well within their boundaries. At their best, they are a solid post-grunge band, grinding their riffs out with muscle; at their worst, they are simply faceless. The best moments of My Own Prison suggest they'll be able to leave post-grunge anonymity behind and develop their own signature sound.