POD are a band whose rap-centric nu metal sound has withstood the test of time. Their early works contained strong elements of hip hop, jazz, and reggae, and thus far they’ve stuck to similar terrain.
Which brings us to Veritas. This time around, the boys are switching it up, blending their rap metal with healthy doses of arena rock, hard rock, and alternative rock. The new approach explodes into full force with the lead single “Drop”, which also contains a brief vocal feature from Lamb of God frontman Randy Blythe.
Frontman Sonny Sandoval still sounds just as fierce as he ever did in his heyday. Songs like “Breaking”, “Afraid to Die” and “I Won’t Bow Down” showcase Sonny’s rapping capabilities–feeling just as fresh as ever–with bars that Mike Shinoda would be proud of. Themes of rebellion, spiritual awareness, and personal strength shine throughout the album. Supporting Sandoval are a few other voices; “Afraid To Die” features Tatiana Shmayluk of Jinjer fame taking the mic on some verses, plus one final screamed delivery on the bridge that delivers that final pump of energy before closing out. “This Is My Life” features ex-Saosin vocalist Cove Reber (currently of Dead American).
“This is My Life” and “Lies We Tell Ourselves” are the most alternative rock songs on the album, and they are also, unfortunately, by far the least interesting. Rock songs are just not a lane that the band pulls off notably well. In general, the more straightforward alternative metal sound Veritas expresses here doesn’t feel nearly as memorable as their earlier approach, especially on albums like Satellite and The Fundamental Elements of Southtown, and as a result, the final product makes for an album with diminishing returns. While there are highlights here, with Sonny Sandoval being the shining star on the album, the overall experience that Veritas offers isn’t the most noteworthy, especially when you compare it to POD’s classic material.
Check out the video for "I Got That" from Veritas below, directed by J.T. Ibanez.
