P.O.D.: Testify : Music Reviews : Rolling Stone

Album Reviews

The prospect of a bunch of Christian groove metalers releasing a record called Testify, which is what P.O.D. have done with their fifth album, might seem instantly off-putting. To P.O.D.'s credit, Testify is not as pompous or overblown as you might think; it just feels tired. With help from superproducer Glen Ballard, barnburners like "Mistakes and Glories" achieve heavy-rock propulsion, but their all-too-familiar parts -- sludgy guitars, call-and-response shouts and brawny rhymes -- have all the iridescence of an old sweatshirt. A couple of cuts, including two collaborations with the Hasidic toaster Matisyahu, show off a novel fondness for reggae. But ballad-ish numbers like "Let You Down" truly feel like a drag, expressing spiritual exhaustion through slate-gray melodies and diaristic laments like "I'm so tired of faking my life." The most notable aspect of Testify, in fact, is how little P.O.D., or their guitars, have to say.

CHRISTIAN HOARD

(Posted: Jan 23, 2006)

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Review 1 of 2

5of 5 Stars

What can I say. POD just has the perfect edge that always satifies. Testify is no different. Just give it a spin and you'll see. Be moved, and be shaken!

Feb 2, 2006 09:58:20

Review 2 of 2

5of 5 Stars

This album is musically brilliant and very creative. They have carved their own sound in strong hooks and choruses. If anyone can stay at the rap/metal thing these guys can because they mix the styles of reggae, rap, rock so well. It's high energy and thought provoking. Great producing from Glen Ballard and from the first track (which is not listed on your site) 'Roots in Stereo' it grabs you and interests BIG TIME. Brings a smile and makes you want to move. This music will go down big in movie sound tracks and sports shows! All round strong!!!

Jan 28, 2006 21:13:05

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