“Shine With Me” is a vaguely spiritual invitation to be a light destined for heaven. With a reggae groove, “I’ll Be Ready” finds the singer expecting God (Jah) to deliver him from wickedness. Other songs speculate about the last days (“End of the World”), acknowledge the polarized forces influencing our lives (“When Angels and Serpents Dance”) and urge leaders to possess integrity and be worthy of their followers’ trust (“Rise Against”). “God Forbid” is about drawing lines between ourselves and a world hostile to our beliefs (“We’re so used to bowing down that we forget how to stand up”). The band reassures an ostracized girl, unemployed dad and a woman who has miscarried that “It Can’t Rain Everyday.” “Addicted” condemns the destructive power of vice, but …
Graphic metaphors such as “Deal me up another hit of self-mutilation and let me blow my brains out” go over the top. A vitriolic anti-war song rants about our leaders’ “wicked intentions” in the Middle East (“Tell Me Why”). Guilt, shame and unforgiveness result in anger on “This Ain’t No Ordinary Love Song.” Members of the dark bands Helmet and Suicidal Tendencies make cameos.
The angels win this bout, but there’s a bit more darkness to navigate than P.O.D. fans are used to.
After serving as an associate editor at NavPress’ Discipleship Journal and consulting editor for Current Thoughts and Trends, Adam now oversees the editing and publishing of Plugged In’s reviews as the site’s director. He and his wife, Jennifer, have three children. In their free time, the Holzes enjoy playing games, a variety of musical instruments, swimming and … watching movies.
