The multi-platinum hard rock band P.O.D. -- whose pioneering fusion of hip-hop, metal and reggae elements with a spiritually-based worldview helped launch a new American musical movement -- has signed with INO/Columbia Records, it was announced today by Steve Barnett, Chairman, Columbia Records and Jeff Moseley, President, INO Records.

The band's inaugural album for INO/Columbia Records, slated for release in 2008, will be the first to feature the classic original P.O.D. line-up -- Sonny (vocals), Wuv (drums), Traa (bass), and returning member Marcos (guitar) -- since the group's triple platinum masterpiece, "Satellite," was released on September 11, 2001. P.O.D. is currently in Los Angeles working on album pre-production with producer Jay Baumgardner.

"P.O.D. is an exciting and an important band with an expansive musical vision and a powerful message for our times," said Mr. Barnett. "It is a great pleasure to welcome them to Columbia Records."

"I have been a big fan of P.O.D. for years and it's a thrill to be working with them," said Mr. Moseley. "With the original line-up back together, the new album promises to be a landmark achievement for the group and a huge gift to their fans. I look forward to a long and fruitful relationship with the guys and their new label."

With a 14-year career under their belts, the members of P.O.D. have logged a remarkable array of achievements, including worldwide sales exceeding 8 million, sold-out international concert tours, a series of chart topping radio hits, and an unprecedented four #1 videos on MTV's "TRL." Supported by a passionate fanbase -- known as "the Warriors" -- the band has created what its members describe as "a catalog of music that we want to respect and honor with each step into the future."