Testify Review by Emily T. Wierenga

Ever since their hardcore breakthrough back in 1999 with Fundamental Elements of Southtown, these San Diego dudes have rocking up both mainstream and Christian charts. And now, with their fourth Atlantic Records release, P.O.D. proves they’re ready to Testify.

Admittedly, back when they outshone their mainstream and Christian rapcore contemporaries with 2001’s Satellite, late-‘90s rock was still in vogue. Since Satellite’s ascension, the band has replaced a guitarist who’d left the band and adjusted to a new sound all while fulfilling their recording deadline; hence, the softer sound of Payable On Death.

Yet with Testify, which reverts back to a Limp Biskit/Korn mode, P.O.D. rises to their most high-powered sound yet, assisted by mega-producer Glen Ballard (Alanis Morissette, Van Halen). The emphasis has returned to rapped vocals, guitar assaults, and reggae detours. Some of the highlights include the surprisingly catchy, sure to be radio hit “This Time,” and the faith-drenched “Strength of My Life,” an edgy worship song derived from the Psalms found in the Bible.

Overall, P.O.D. certifies with this raging testimony why they’re one of the best hardcore bands out there.

Payable on Death Review by Keith Dow, 2004

“Only you knew where I have gone/ I want to prove I am worthy to be called yours.”
This line from the song, “Find My Way” on P. O. D.’s latest album, Payable on Death, highlights the essence of the band’s musical journey. From signing with major mainstream label, Atlantic Records, to the success of their last album, Satellite, which sold four million copies, the band has experienced many mountain-top moments.

Yet these were recently counteracted by the painful loss of founding guitarist, Marcos Curiel — nearly ending P.O.D.’s legacy. Thankfully, Jason Truby of Living Sacrifice took over on guitar, and helped record Payable on Death. The guitar work hasn’t suffered in the hands of Truby, especially with Christian music maestro Phil Keaggy adding his talent on a couple of tracks.

A rich combination of hard rock, hip-hop, and reggae, the album’s lyrics are meaningful, honest and down-to-earth.

Difficult issues are addressed in their songs, such as the search for lasting love in “Will You,” or forcing one’s views on others in “Asthma.”

There is a fresh distinctness to this album, reflecting a maturation in P.O.D.’s journey of victory and disappointment.

Satellite Reviewed by Dion Lowe, 2001

Satellite is the third full-length release from San Diego foursome P.O.D. It is a lesson-plan on how to mix elements of rock, hip-hop, reggae, and Latin, blending it with a positive message and re-injecting it into mainstream culture.

P.O.D. doesn’t paint a picture of the typical ‘Christian band.’ They grew up in troubled homes, survived the street life, and still wear tattoos and body piercings as evidence of the journey. They are similar to artists Korn, Limp Bizkit, and Papa Roach, and have toured with the likes of Hed Pe and Kid Rock. Steadfast in their Christian faith, P.O.D. are taken seriously in an environment where solid moral value may definitely be lacking.

Upon hearing this record, it is obvious that P.O.D. approaches life from an entirely different perspective than other bands of their genre. The track “Alive” and the title cut “Satellite” speak for four young men who have been touched by the love of God and show the permanent change as clearly as the ink on their arms.

This is an outstanding album from start to finish, and without a doubt will please fans with a taste for harder music, as well as being polished enough to introduce newcomers to the genre.

Dreadlocks and tattoos aside, these guys exemplify relationship with God over religionship to God, and that’s hard to argue against.