P.O.D. once again gave a rock performance in Spain, passing two decades since their last show there.
In the vibrant world of music, few bands have managed to stand out quite like P.O.D. (Payable on Death). Formed in the early 1990s, this American ensemble has made a name for itself by fusing Christian metal, alternative, and nu-metal styles, creating a unique sound that resonates with audiences across the globe.
The band, comprised of Sonny Sandoval (lead vocals), Marcos Curiel (guitar), Traa Daniels (bass), and Noah "Wuvy" Bernardo (drums), debuted with their album Snuff the Punk in 1994. While this release positioned them within the Christian metal scene, it was their subsequent works that truly propelled them to stardom.
One such work is the song 'Southtown', released in 1999. This powerful track served as a launching pad for P.O.D., catapulting them into the limelight. Other hits followed, including 'Will You' and the monumental 'Alive', which became a massive MTV hit in 2001.
P.O.D.'s music is characterised by its fusion of heavy metal instrumentation with elements of hip hop, reggae, and alternative rock. This dynamic blend is evident in their 2001 album Satellite, which was described by drummer Wuv Bernardo as "more mature" and incorporating slower tempos and more emotional depth. This album earned multiple Grammy nominations and a triple platinum certification, solidifying P.O.D.'s place in the music industry.
At the heart of P.O.D.'s music lies a commitment to faith and social issues. Their lyrics often tackle themes of faith, hope, and the struggles faced by youth. This faith-based perspective, coupled with their socially conscious messages, sets them apart within the metal and alternative genres, bridging mainstream appeal with Christian content.
The band's social commitment extends beyond their music. They have been vocal advocates for vulnerable young people, addressing topics such as youth violence in their songs like 'Youth of the Nation'. Their concerts often serve as a platform for spreading messages of strength, resilience, and personal redemption.
In recent news, frontman Sonny Sandoval published an autobiography titled 'Son of Southtown: My Life Between Two Worlds' in April 2025, offering readers a glimpse into his personal life and the band's journey. Moreover, during a concert in Warsaw, Poland, in the same month, the band's 18-year-old son, Justice, made a memorable appearance, playing drums on a few songs.
Currently, P.O.D. is taking a summer break but will return to the road in the US in October and November. Their shows are not to be missed, as they continue to deliver powerful performances filled with hope, energy, and a message that resonates with audiences of all ages. In fact, during a recent concert in Burgos, Shannon, Sonny's wife of 30 years, was in attendance, watching the show with pride.
In conclusion, P.O.D. is a band that has weathered the storms of the music industry while staying true to their faith and social commitments. Their music, a blend of metal, hip hop, and alternative rock, is characterised by its positive and hopeful messages, making them a beacon of light in the often dark world of metal. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to their music, P.O.D. is a band worth exploring.
The band's unique sound, a fusion of Christian metal, alternative, and nu-metal styles, has propelled them into entertainment stardom, with hits like 'Southtown', 'Will You', and 'Alive' reaching global audiences. The dynamic blend of heavy metal instrumentation with elements of hip hop, reggae, and alternative rock in their music is a testament to their innovative approach, earning them multiple Grammy nominations and triple platinum certifications.
