XIII Minutes: New Single “Seeing Is Deceiving”

Earlier this year, XIII Minutes released the popular 2000s-nostaglic single, “Panic.” “Seeing is Deceiving” is the hard-hitting, deep follow-up that is meant to drum up conversation about childhood abuse and its long-term effects. From the presskit, the band writes “‘Seeing is Deceiving’ is a deeply honest reflection on the lasting impact of childhood and mistreatment and the mental, emotional and spiritual wounds it can leave behind.” 

John Watson starts the song with some hard-hitting guitar riffs while Jerrod Cunningham’s vocals are full of emotion and vulnerability, showing the weight of the topic. The theme resonates through every aspect of the song. Musically, the heavy guitar riffs and Jamie Kucinski’s impactful drums carry the heavy topic. Jerrod’s powerful vocals push it even deeper and stronger as the question is asked, “If a person experiences such hurt at a young age, then how is God going to fix them?” The lyrics that echo this sentiment are “Reach for me, is it too late? I called to You, so why’d You wait? If I come home, will You be there? Or am I broken beyond repair?” The track leans into a strong Shinedown energy, anchored by John’s relentless guitar work. 

This haunting single hits everything that a rock fan wants in a banger. John continues to shine with the guitar work and Jerrod’s vocals are so powerful and driven. XIII Minutes keeps impressing us with each expansion to their discography. I thought “Panic” was a really good release and now “Seeing is Deceiving” surpasses that. Last year, they released another power ballad, “Stay,” which wrestled with the heavy topic of suicide and I feel that this song is the updated version of “Stay.” XIII Minutes hits the hard, impactful topics while just absolutely driving home that intense tone through the music and vocals. Much like “Panic” raised the bar with its nostalgia-infused, impressive guitar riffs, “Seeing is Deceiving” represents the next stage in the group's musical growth, delivering a track that will leave listeners eager for what comes next.

Check out our 2025 interview with XIII Minutes and go follow them on Facebook and Instagram!