Toronto’s punk rock scene just got another jolt of energy with Drowning, the latest single from Crimson, a band that’s quickly gaining momentum with their fierce sound and uplifting message. Released on February 10, 2025, the track encapsulates everything that makes Crimson stand out—aggression, melody, and an unrelenting spirit of defiance. For fans of high-energy punk infused with a deeper purpose, Drowning is more than just a song; it’s a battle cry for resilience.
From the very first note, Drowning hits hard, with blistering guitar riffs and pounding drums that create an urgent, almost desperate intensity. Angel Licop’s raw, emotive vocals cut through the mix, delivering lyrics that explore themes of struggle and survival. The song’s message is clear—life’s obstacles can be overwhelming, but there’s always a way to fight through. It’s an anthem for anyone who has ever felt like they were sinking under the weight of their own battles, only to find the strength to rise again.
Ken Salazar’s lead guitar work adds a dynamic edge, seamlessly shifting between lightning-fast punk riffs and melodic flourishes that add depth to the chaos. Meanwhile, Dennis Lauchengco’s basslines pulse with undeniable groove, providing a thick backbone to the track’s relentless energy. Gian Hagong’s drumming is nothing short of explosive, a thunderous force that keeps the momentum driving forward. Together, Crimson creates a sound that is both ferocious and cathartic—perfect for blasting at full volume.
While Drowning is undeniably intense, its message is rooted in the band’s core philosophy: positive mental attitude (PMA). Crimson isn’t just about rebellion for the sake of it; they channel their frustrations into something constructive, using their music as a source of empowerment. The lyrics don’t wallow in despair—they fight back against it. There’s a sense of urgency in Angel’s voice, but also a glimmer of hope, a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there’s a way forward.
Since forming in 2023, Crimson has quickly become a staple in Toronto’s underground scene, known for their electrifying live shows and undeniable chemistry on stage. Their fusion of punk rock’s raw energy with hardcore’s intensity and post-rock’s expansive soundscapes has given them a unique identity in an increasingly diverse punk landscape. Unlike bands that simply embrace chaos, Crimson refines it, channeling their aggression into something powerful and purposeful.
Live, they are a force to be reckoned with—tight, relentless, and completely in sync. The connection between the band and their audience is palpable, a shared experience of release and renewal. In an era where punk can sometimes feel like it’s losing its edge, Crimson proves that the genre is alive and kicking, still capable of inspiring and uniting people through the sheer power of sound.
With Drowning, Crimson sets the stage for what’s next. Their debut EP is on the horizon, and if this single is any indication, it’s going to be a hard-hitting collection of songs that blend energy with meaning. Punk has always been about more than just noise—it’s about speaking truth to struggle, about giving voice to the feelings that are too big to contain. Crimson understands this deeply, and their music reflects it.
As Toronto continues to thrive as a hub for alternative music, Crimson stands at the forefront, ready to take their message beyond the local scene and into a wider world that could use a little more grit, a little more defiance, and a whole lot more resilience. Drowning is just the beginning. This is a band on the rise, and they’re bringing everyone along for the ride.
