Testify [NTSC, Import]

If you're new to nu-metal, but like rock, reggae and rap, then this San Diego group may be what you've been looking for. P.O.D. (Payable On Death) released two early albums before hitting mainstream with 1999's "The Fundamental Elements of Southtown", then went in to chart huge hits with follow up album "Satellite" in 2001.

When you think of P.O.D., chances are that two songs will jump to mind - "Youth of the Nation" and "Satellite" - "Sleeping Awake" was also a favorite of mine. Third album "Payable on Death" also had a couple of hits.

"Testify" starts with a driving reggae/rock track "Roots in Stereo" which sets the tone for the album, guaranteed to contribute to the wear and tear of your speakers. Second track "Lights Out" switches to rock/rap, and also sounds great LOUD. Just when you thought you've heard it all, third track "If You Could See Me Now" is practically a ballad, just warming you up for the excellent first single "Goodbye for Now", easily the best song on the album.

The clever switching between music genres continues down the track list, other picks being "On the Grind"; "This Time"; "Let You Down"; and "Strength of My Life".

Amanda Richards, February 14, 2006

After founding guitarist Marcos Curiel was booted from the band in early 2003, P.O.D. underwent some changes. Recruiting guitarist Jason Truby to fill in his place was the first step, after which they recorded and released their album "Payable On Death" later that year. The sound was a bit different, as expected, as Curiel was a crucial part of the group's sound. The results were mixed. What I got out of that album is the same old P.O.D. sound, but bogged down by boring riffs and "been there, done that" lyrics. So, for their next album, they switched producers from the reliable Howard Benson to the risky Glen Ballard (Michael Jackson, Alanis Morisette), took their time, and turned in an album that is up to par with their best material.

Those who discovered P.O.D. on "The Fundamental Elements Of Southtown" or "Satellite," rejoice. The old P.O.D. is back, but obviously sounding refreshed and a bit more updated. Gone are cheesy jock-rock anthems like "Boom" or "Rock The Party." "Testify" is home to some of the most mature and polished songs in the P.O.D. songbook. Songs like "This Time" and the first single, "Goodbye For Now" are classic melodic-rock from the group, and a perfect example of where this album takes them. "If You Could See Me Now" is another noteworthy track, it reminds me a lot of the title track from "Satellite," while "Sounds Like War" and "Lights Out" deliver the bottom-heavy rap-rock that helped P.O.D. rise above the competition before. Upcoming reggae star Matisyahu shows up on not one, but two tracks: "Strength Of My Life" and "Roots In Stereo" and shows off P.O.D.'s love for the genre, while putting their own mark on it.

"Testify" is easily one of P.O.D.'s strongest albums. In my opinion, it isn't perfect, but neither is any P.O.D. release. This may not be their ticket back to platinum status and MTV rotation, but "Testify" will definitely re-affirm a lot of fans' faith. The only person who could not like this album would be someone who never cared for the band in the first place. One last thing I can say is that Jason Truby has finally filled in the shows of Marcos. Marcos left a huge gap, but on this album, Jason fills it in. The bottom line is that P.O.D. are back, stronger than ever. It may be a gamble, seeing as their sound is one that is fading rapidly from the mainstream, but at the end of the day, "Testify" is just a good, honest effort.

This album has a little something for everyone. You have the hard rock feel the reggae feel and the strong messages in every song. Best message coming from "Strength of My Life". Thats what makes POD great they can rock out hard and deliver a positive message and this album definitely rocks out hard. My top three on this album are: "Strength of My Life", "Mark My Words" and "Roots in Stereo". A definite buy for any POD fan.