[Dogstar]

I agree that Weathered did have more of a packaged feel to it and I think some of that likely came from Wind-Up. They're seeing a cash-cow in Creed and that usually means a more mainstream approach. They don't have to sell out, though. Other groups have stayed true to themselves and have maintained a decent fan base, enough to make a comfortable living. Look at Pearl Jam, for instance. They don't sell nearly as much as they used to, but their concerts sell out in minutes. If the music is good, people will buy it, enough for the artist or group to make a living.