CD Review: Creed Fisher – Whiskey and the Dog
by Matt Belyea for Country Music News International
Creed Fisher is a self-proclaimed Redneck, Red-Dirt and Ready to Rumble Texan who came to music to express himself after a failed marriage and what seems to be self-reflection that has turned out an amazing set of music on this, his 11th release. Although he’s only been in the music game for about a decade or so, his lyrical sense harkens back to Hank Jr, and is flush with heartbreak and resurrection and the bottom of a glass sometimes. Let’s jump into this must listen record.
High on the Bottle: A classic Hank Jr styled tune which really showcases Creed’s voice, and it hits all the right notes. Honkytonk mid-tempo that will get you moving. His band, honed from playing roadhouses, this tune is surely pleasing live.
This Town: An American story – he’s a great storyteller and it shines through on this heartbreaking tail. Where there are so many manufactured songs by artists that drop the rightdescriptive phrases, but something about Creed Fisher really comes through authentic. His talent for spinning a ballad are really top-notch and it’s on full display right here.
Whiskey and the Dog: The everyday tale of a marriage going bad is put to song right here, I think this is probably my favorite tune on this release. This guy has some serious hurt going on and he’s channeled it into some really wonderful songs.  “take my soul, it’s all I got left”… whoa.  A must listen to red dirt Texas, hell – just fans of lamenting destroyed relationships.
Hundred Dollars Short: A little ode to 16 tons in the opening line and jumps right into a rollicking song about the life of a blue collar, working man’s life. I want to travel down to Texas and see this band live, that’s how much I like this music.
Grey Skies: A classic country ballad, self-reflection about how alone you can be. Sounds likea bit of sad Hank Jr. His voice is uncannily similar, and perfect for these heartbreaking songs. When you look at Creed, he’s a big, tough looking guy, yet the sadness and sensitivity the comes through in these tunes is great.
Don’t California my Texas: Get past the intro lead, Ok, get ready for a political statement on this some, Creed does not mince words on his beliefs.
The Good Old US of A:  Another working man’s tribute song, that shines on slow tempo ballad.
Down to the Riverbank:Â The band channels a Skynyrd vibe on this tune with an absolutely great Hammond solo.
Find My Way Back Home: Love this guy’s voice, reminiscent of Trace Adkins. Creed knows how to write ballads, and his introspective writing is full-throttle on this song. His ability to write a catchy end hook is impressive. How he describes his life is authentic, he’s lived it, not read about it.
Wrap Up: I’m going to let you enjoy the rest of the songs on this release, I was so impressed that I actually reached out to this artist to let them know how much I enjoyed the music, something I do not often do. That’s how good this release is. If you are a fan of red-dirt, bar band music that forays into insightful working man ballads – this is a must listen.