Description
P.O.D. - Payable On Death – CD
Released on November 4, 2003, Payable on Death is the fifth studio album by P.O.D., marking a significant transition in the band’s career. Following the mainstream success of Satellite (2001), which featured hits like Alive and Youth of the Nation, this album introduced a darker, more melodic, and stripped-down sound, moving away from their rap-metal roots toward a more alternative and hard rock-driven approach.
One of the biggest changes was the departure of longtime guitarist Marcos Curiel, who left before the recording sessions. He was replaced by Jason Truby, formerly of Living Sacrifice, whose more intricate, melodic guitar style contributed to the album’s shift in tone. While Payable on Death still retains elements of nu-metal, it leans more heavily into grunge, alternative rock, and classic metal influences, featuring fewer rapped vocals and a more mature, atmospheric approach.
The album showcases a more subdued and introspective sound, replacing the hip-hop-infused aggression of their past albums with soaring melodies, cleaner guitar tones, and spiritual themes. The production is heavier and moodier, featuring rich harmonics, layered guitar effects, and slower, more deliberate compositions.
While some fans missed the rap-rock intensity of their earlier work, Payable on Death still maintains P.O.D.’s signature uplifting and spiritual message, but through a more refined, almost mystical atmosphere. The band also experimented with acoustic elements, drawing comparisons to Alice in Chains, Soundgarden, and even Tool in some moments.
Track Highlights
“Wildfire” – A moody, brooding intro track that sets up the album’s heavier atmosphere.
“Will You” – The lead single, featuring melancholic yet soaring melodies, with lyrics about faith, struggle, and redemption.
“Change the World” – A slower, more melodic track that showcases P.O.D.’s spiritual and positive themes, similar in tone to Youth of the Nation.
“Execute the Sounds” – One of the few tracks with a throwback to their rap-metal roots, though delivered in a more restrained manner.
“Find My Way” – A powerful and emotional song dealing with finding purpose in life, featuring Truby’s intricate guitar work.
“Revolution” – One of the album’s heavier songs, bringing in thick, grinding riffs and a darker tone.
“The Reasons” – A standout track that feels uplifting yet intense, balancing aggression and melody.
“I and Identify” – A grunge-influenced track with deep, introspective lyrics.
“Eternal” – The instrumental closing track, featuring a beautiful acoustic guitar solo by Jason Truby, reminiscent of classical and flamenco influences.
As with previous P.O.D. albums, Payable on Death explores themes of faith, redemption, personal struggles, and hope. The lyrics feel more mature and poetic, often tackling questions of existence, inner turmoil, and perseverance through a spiritual lens. While their Christian faith is evident, the messages are universal, making the songs relatable even for non-religious listeners.
Payable on Death received mixed reviews upon release. While some critics praised the band’s musical evolution and more refined songwriting, others felt that losing the rap-rock edge made them less distinctive. Commercially, the album debuted at #9 on the Billboard 200, selling 106,000 copies in its first week—a respectable performance, though not as massive as Satellite.
Despite the division among fans, the album has aged well, particularly among listeners who appreciate its darker, more atmospheric style. Over time, Payable on Death has gained a cult following, especially among those who favor alternative metal over nu-metal.
While Payable on Death wasn’t as commercially successful as Satellite, it stands as a bold artistic statement, showing P.O.D.’s willingness to evolve beyond the nu-metal label. The deeper lyrics, haunting melodies, and intricate guitar work give it a unique place in their discography.
If you’re a fan of P.O.D.’s heavier and moodier side—or enjoy bands like Alice in Chains, Deftones, and Soundgarden—this album is worth a revisit.
Australian Import
Brand new, never played and in the factory plastic seal
‘Featuring the single Will You plus 2 bonus tracks and CDkey which unlocks a previously unreleased track’
Track Listing
Wildfire
Will You
Change The World
Execute The Gounds
Find My Way
Revolution
The Reasons
Freedom Fighters
Waiting On Today
I And Identify
Asthma
Eternal
Sleeping Awake (Bonus Track)
Space (The Phatheads Remix)
