For more than three decades, P.O.D. (Payable on Death) has remained one of rock’s most enduring bands, blending hard rock, metal, reggae, punk, and hip-hop into a signature sound that has produced hits like “Alive,” “Youth of the Nation,” and “Boom.” Following the release of their acclaimed album Veritas, the San Diego quartet has continued touring around the world, most recently performing across South America alongside Seether before returning to the high seas for ShipRocked 2026. With a new album already in the works, a summer packed with European festivals, and fresh music expected later this year, guitarist Marcos Curiel caught up with The Travel Addict to discuss the band’s recent Beatles cover, upcoming music, favorite travel destinations, and why ShipRocked keeps bringing them back.
Last fall you surprised fans by releasing a heavy version of The Beatles’ “Don’t Let Me Down.” Why did you choose that song, and could we hear more covers in the future?
We’ve always been huge music fans, regardless of genre. We’re constantly throwing ideas around when we’re traveling—on planes, buses—we’re always saying, “That would be a cool cover.” We’ve actually talked about doing an EP or even a full album of covers just for fun.
As for “Don’t Let Me Down,” we’ve all been Beatles fans our whole lives. There was a hardcore band back home called Impel that used to play their own version of that song, and it always inspired us. We thought, “Nobody’s really heard a heavy version done the way we’d like to do it.” So we recorded it with producer Josh Wilbur, and it turned out amazing.
What surprised us was how quickly fans embraced it. We were touring South America with Seether, and the crowds immediately started singing every word. I mean…it’s The Beatles. What can you do?
The band toured across South America with Seether and your own headline shows last Fall. Were there any standout cities?
South America for P.O.D. is kind of like Beatlemania. We did Brazil, Argentina, Chile, and Costa Rica, and every crowd somehow topped the last one. You think Brazil can’t be beaten, then Argentina somehow raises the bar.
Those fans are incredibly passionate. They love American rock music, but they also love that we mix genres—rock, reggae, punk, heavy music. They love their culture, they love their food, and they absolutely love live music. That passion comes through every night.
Outside of the concerts, do you enjoy exploring local culture while you’re on tour?
Absolutely. Whenever we get the chance, we want to experience wherever we’re playing. We ask locals where they eat, where they hang out, what restaurant everybody loves. We’re not picky at all—we love trying local food.
What was your favorite meal from South America?
Argentinian steak. It’s incredible. But honestly, Brazilian steakhouses are amazing too. You really can’t go wrong.
Can fans expect new P.O.D. music this year?
Yes! We’re writing a new album right now. We’ll be heading into the studio with producer Will Yip, who produced the last two Turnstile records. It all happened organically. He’s a fan of our band, we’re fans of what he does, and we just thought, “Let’s see what happens.” We’re really excited about it.
What’s inspiring the band creatively right now?
Momentum. Making Veritas after the pandemic really reminded us how much we love doing this. The pandemic made everyone reflect. We asked ourselves, “Do we still miss touring? Do we miss playing shows?” The answer was absolutely yes. Instead of slowing down, we want to keep creating music and keep doing what we love.
ShipRocked has become a yearly tradition for P.O.D. What keeps bringing you back?
How could you not come back? Whether we’re performing as P.O.D. or joining the Stowaways, it’s like a rock-and-roll vacation. All your friends are here, and so are the fans who’ve been coming for years. Everybody remembers each other. It’s really like one big family.
You still live in San Diego. What’s your perfect day there?
Rent a beach cruiser bike and ride from South Mission Beach all the way up to Pacific Beach. Bring a Bluetooth speaker, play some music, enjoy the ocean, and just soak it all in. Then stop at World Famous for some fish tacos before riding back. That’s a perfect San Diego day.
Any local taco spots visitors should know about?
Definitely. I’d recommend Taco Machin in Chula Vista. It’s authentic Baja-style Mexican food. Another favorite is Tacos El Frank, located near Plaza Bonita Mall. Their tacos are fantastic—fresh tortillas, grilled onions, cilantro, avocado, and whatever meat you want. Those are the real local spots.
What else is coming up for P.O.D. in 2026?
It’s going to be a busy year. We’re recording the new album, playing a full European festival season—including Download Festival, Nova Rock, and about 20 festivals total. We’ve also got dates with Staind, we’ll be playing Sick New World Texas.
What’s one item you never travel without?
(Laughs.) LED lights for my bunk on the tour bus. They set the mood. Whether it’s red or green lighting, it just makes the space feel more comfortable. And…deodorant. You definitely don’t leave home without deodorant!
With new music on the horizon, an ambitious touring schedule, and more than 30 years of rock history behind them, P.O.D. continues to prove they’re far from slowing down. If Marcos Curiel’s enthusiasm is any indication, 2026 is shaping up to be another exciting chapter for one of rock’s most enduring and influential bands.