Professional ratings
Aggregate scores
Source	Rating
Metacritic	54/100
Review scores
Source	Rating
Allmusic
Blender
Christianity Today
Cross Rhythms
Entertainment Weekly	C
Mojo
Q
Rolling Stone
Spin	(6/10)

Payable on Death is the fifth studio album and third release by Californian metal quartet P.O.D.. Following the controversial departure of Marcos Curiel, it was their first album to feature guitarist Jason Truby and their last album produced by Howard Benson, until Murdered Love in 2012. Payable on Death was released on November 4, 2003 through Atlantic and marks a notable de-emphasizing of the band's distinctive rapcore style. While a commercial disappointment compared to the monumental Satellite, it has sold over 1,300,000 copies worldwide.

Following the triple-platinum success of Satellite, P.O.D. enjoyed abundant radio, television, and concert success. However, on February 19, 2003, guitarist Marcos Curiel left the band under controversial circumstances, with contradictory reasons given from both parties. The remaining members expressed remorse in their friend's departure and considered disbanding until Jason Truby, former member of Christian metal band Living Sacrifice, assisted with the recording of "Sleeping Awake", from The Matrix Reloaded soundtrack. The alliance strengthened the band and allowed them to begin recording a new album in spring 2003.

Yearning for a fresh start, the group rented a practice space in San Diego and started jamming with no expectations and no deadlines. Vocalist Sonny Sandoval explained, "We took it back to the roots. We broke down the walls in this abandoned warehouse and set up shop. The doors were always open to our friends and family and people around San Diego to come through. And it was just more of a home vibe." According to bassist Traa Daniels, "It was innocent and it was natural and fun." Within the first month of recording, P.O.D. had an unprecedented 17 songs to work with. The group also decided on the title Payable on Death both to set the record straight regarding the band's initials and as a symbol of their rebirth.

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Wikipedia