A Higher Power For Scott Stapp Posted March 23, 2024 By RyanAdams_NRT, Staff Reviewer
What You Need To Know Scott Stapp, the lead singer of the rock band Creed, has also released numerous solo works. Higher Power, his most personal and spiritually honest record yet, is his fourth record since starting his solo career in 2005. Scott has been outspoken about his Christian faith in recent years, and his roots can be traced back to early Creed days.
What It Sounds Like
To say this new project is different from a Creed album would be wrong. Scott cannot separate that sound from his own music; it's who he is. There are beautifully melodious ballads and some of the heaviest songs he has created in a long time, such as the lead single "Higher Power" or "Black Butterfly." Talented guitarist Yiannis Papadopoulos also provides significant guitar riffs and solos on three songs.
Spiritual Highlights
Scott's faith is more noticeable on this record than on The Space Between The Shadows, his last release in 2019. The lead single, "Higher Power," boldly views God and how broken people like us need a savior. Scott is also very introspective, highlighting the impact of grace in our lives in songs such as "What I Deserve."
Scott's traditional, feel-good, encouraging songwriting is evident throughout, especially in the last three songs. But knowing these lyrics are coming from a place of faith gives them a stronger weight; I could even consider "Weight of the World" an encouraging perspective from God to us.
Best Song
The lead single, "Higher Power," is an explosive song that easily rivals Scott's music, from solo to Creed. The sound is high-energy, Scott's vocals are soaring and commanding, and the declaration of faith is refreshing. Though Scott's soft side is heart-warming, a song like "If These Walls Could Talk" is a prime example of his vulnerability to life. He admits to faults but confesses to change in his heart and ways despite the struggles, much like our lives in Christ.
Bottom Line
Scott's faithfulness and honesty about his life with God are evident, and he is rewarded for it. However, there are a few complaints about the album. However, there was a pleasant surprise with a biblical reference in the line "What I Deserve," closing with "And we need to realize that the Holy Spirit will lead us into all truth." I would have loved to hear more of this direct truth from the many who will listen to this album. Higher Power is an emotional exploration featuring the dichotomy of living with faith in a faithless world.
