There is nothing wrong with using C & C thread. Just be sure that it is not the hand quilting thread or the cones made for sergers (although I think others have used them with no problem.)
I don't know whAt you bought the second time. There are different kinds at Joanns and you just want XP. I use good ol C & C all the time for piecing and quilting. I try others when I want a particular color for quilting. Whatever you can afford is fine.