Article written & edited by Kelly-Mae Matt

Returning to their darker roots in their much-anticipated 9th single release, Japanese-British Metal x Darkpop band Re:O have brought us Crimson Desire, a powerful track that explores the realisation that what you have is not enough despite the fact that you sacrificed most of your life to get where you are.

Released on August 13th, 2025 on various streaming platforms, Crimson Desire continues to showcase Re:O’s versatility as musicians in this powerful addition to their discography that aims to blend aggressive instrumentation with harmonious vocals, and pivots from the groups usual signature blend of Japanese styled synths.

Review:

Opening with what can only be described as disorienting synths that are quickly followed by Rio’s haunting, almost taunting vocals, Crimson Desire throws you into a world of aggression that feels oddly calm, yet dangerous at the same time. Sound wise, this song takes a different stance compared to previous tracks thanks to its focus on raw, heavy guitar riffs that bring an eccentric and chaotic quality to the music. Contrasted by Rio’s melodic vocals, Crimson Desire depicts the singer-songwriter’s desire to climb to higher places in her music career, a desire that is further enhanced through the frustration and emotion that she engages with both lyrically and vocally throughout the song.

Once again, Rio’s vocals are absolutely stellar; not only is she melodic when it comes to singing, but she continues to prove that she is a true master of emotion when it comes to bringing her lyrics and the music to life. In every breath and every lyric, we can hear her desire and want grow throughout the song in the most subtle yet meaningful of ways, almost as if we are experiencing the calm before the storm. Then, when we come to the end of the song, we finally see the true extent of Rio’s frustration in a small but highly significant snippet of aggression that ultimately brings the song to a close.

There is a lot of power behind Crimson Desire, from its instrumentation to Rio’s carefully thought-out vocals. All at once this song is both calm and aggressive, a combination that not only creates a unique atmosphere that feels somewhat dystopian, but also feels harmonious despite the contrast. Of course, it is the subtle hints of Rio’s aggression that progresses throughout the song that truly brings Crimson Desire to life; backed by quiet screams behind the word ‘desire’, Rio’s calm slowly begins to unwind the more she sings, almost as if that same desire is clawing its way out the more she tries to reach for what she wants.

Ultimately, Crimson Desire is a beautiful blend of aggressive instrumentation and gorgeous vocals that offers a unique addition to Re:O’s already impressive collection of songs. In sound and lyrics it is both powerful and aggressive, yet when it comes to Rio’s vocals there is a calming quality that should feel at odds with the instrumental. Yet it is this very contrast that seamlessly blends the warring emotions together until the mask that Rio has carefully crafted for herself slips off at the end, and we as the listeners are finally allowed to hear her true voice break through.

Crimson Desire is not only beautiful, loud and passionate; it is also addictive and memorable, and a true standout for Re:O musically. This is one of those songs that definitely needs to be heard live at least once, and for fans of both Japanese and metal music alike, Crimson Desire is definitely worth a listen. Be sure to check it out.

You can now stream Re:O’s new single, Crimson Desire, on the following streaming platforms:

Spotify | Apple Music | Soundcloud | Bandcamp

You can also follow and support Re:O on the following platforms:

Linktree | X | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Spotify | Twitch

Credits:

Composition: Re:O – Rio Suyama, James Wright, James ‘J’ Stevens, Jon Roberts
Lyrics: Rio Suyama & James Wright
Produced by: Rio Suyama & Simon Jackson
Vocals: Rio Suyama & Jon Roberts
Guitar: Jon Roberts
Bass: James Wright
Drums: James ‘J’ Stevens

Artwork Credits: Colin Van Dongen