ARTMS "BURN" Review: Why This 2025 Release Hits Different (Honest Take)

The April 4, 2025 release marks a significant milestone for the members of ARTMS, though the journey wasn't without its challenges. Initially planned as part of LOONA's repackage album, the track faced delays due to ongoing wildfires in South Korea. However, this waiting period proved meaningful, as the song's theme of burning past memories and rebirth gained deeper resonance. Notably, fans got their first taste of "BURN" during the Lunar Theory world tour in Seoul, where ARTMS showcased their new identity through powerful 808 bass sounds and compelling performances.

What Makes 'BURN' a Defining Moment for ARTMS

The symbolic weight of "BURN" extends far beyond a typical comeback single for the members of ARTMS. Originally conceived as part of a trilogy alongside planned tracks "RUN" and "ONE," this song carries years of creative vision finally realized. The track represents a crucial piece of unfinished business, first teased at the conclusion of LOONA's "Butterfly" promotions back in 2019—making its 2025 release particularly significant for both the artists and their dedicated fanbase.

"BURN" stands as a testament to artistic continuity amid industry upheaval. Produced by G-high, the same mastermind behind LOONA's iconic "Butterfly," the song tells the story of "girls confronting all the prejudices in the world". This thematic connection creates a musical bridge between eras, allowing HeeJin, HaSeul, Kim Lip, JinSoul, and Choerry to honor their origins while establishing their new identity.

Furthermore, the timing of this release was strategically calculated. According to Jaden Jeong, MODHAUS deliberately held "BURN" back from being ARTMS's debut single: "We didn't release 'BURN' as the first song because if we released 'BURN' with the reveal of ARTMS, it could have made it look like LOONA Version 2 and weakened ARTMS' identity". Instead, they launched with "Birth" to establish their foundation first.

Essentially, "BURN" functions as the conceptual "key" unlocking the group's ambitious "Lunar Theory" project. The song's narrative about shedding one's former self during a transformative period resonates perfectly with the members' journey. "It's like leaving that part of you behind as you grow in your identity," Jeong explained.

Consequently, this release marks a pivotal moment where ARTMS can simultaneously acknowledge their legacy while confidently stepping into their future—a delicate balance that makes "BURN" not merely a song but a defining statement about artistic evolution and perseverance.

Inside the Sound: Composition, Lyrics, and Production

Sonically, "BURN" departs from ARTMS's debut track with a more assertive musical identity. The production anchors itself in a distinctly powerful sound framework—one that balances technical complexity with emotional resonance.

808 Bass and Synth Layers: A sonic shift

Unlike their previous releases, "BURN" features a dominant 808 bass that creates a foundation of power throughout the track. Rather than relying on stimulating synths to carry the melody, the production team opted for a heavier rhythm approach, distinguishing it within ARTMS's growing discography.

The track's arrangement utilizes sophisticated production techniques, especially in how the synth bass interacts with the 808 elements. The production employs side-chain processing where certain frequencies are pushed to the sides of the stereo field while keeping the center focused on vocal clarity. This creates a sonic experience where:

The bass elements maintain their powerful presence without muddying vocals
Mid-range synths add texture without competing with the main melodic elements
The overall mix achieves both heaviness and clarity simultaneously

The result is what one reviewer described as "intense, raw, and absolutely gripping from start to finish" with "an ominous build-up that keeps you on edge".

Lyrical theme: Burning the past, rebirth

Lyrically, "BURN" centers on transformation through destruction—burning memories of the past to emerge as something entirely new. The phoenix metaphor runs throughout, with HaSeul, JinSoul, and HeeJin delivering the pivotal bridge: "Reborn once again, in the ashes I lie / Goodbye my sweet lost child".

The narrative progresses from confrontation ("You can see me when I punch your face") toward liberation, creating a cohesive story of personal metamorphosis. Moreover, the pre-chorus cleverly references "Butterfly" with mentions of "fluttering my second wings," establishing thematic continuity between eras.

Producer credits: Jaden Jeong and G-High

Behind "BURN" stands the collaborative genius of producer Jaden Jeong and composer G-High of MonoTree. G-High, who previously crafted LOONA's "Butterfly," brings similar atmospheric elements to "BURN," yet pushes in a more forceful direction.

Jaden Jeong's involvement carries special significance given his history with the members. As he explained: "I am well aware that many fans were looking forward to 'BURN,' and for me as well, as it was the very last project I worked on right before leaving BlockBerry Creative". This context adds emotional weight to the production choices, positioning "BURN" as both a musical and personal milestone for everyone involved.

Member Highlights: How Each Voice Shapes 'BURN'

Each member of ARTMS brings distinct vocal qualities to "BURN," creating a tapestry of sounds that elevates the track beyond a standard K-pop release.

HeeJin ARTMS: Vocal tone and center presence

HeeJin's contribution to "BURN" demonstrates why she remains an anchor for the group's sound. With her rare jazzy tone that adapts across genres, she delivers standout moments in both verses and the emotionally charged bridge. Her lines in "Reborn once again, in the ashes I lie / Goodbye my sweet lost child" showcase her technical strength as she navigates between deep tones and higher registers.

As one of the group's most technically proficient vocalists, HeeJin's flexible voice allows her to shift effortlessly between the track's demanding sections. In concept photos for the release, she embodied a striking "femme fatale" aesthetic that complemented her confident vocal delivery.

HaSeul ARTMS: Emotional delivery and harmonies

HaSeul's operatic background shines throughout "BURN," particularly in her refrain segments alongside Kim Lip and JinSoul. Her well-developed head voice brings a unique texture to lines like "Fluttering my second wings (it's already begun)". Throughout the track, her clear, connected vocal approach creates emotional depth that grounds the song's transformative themes.

In live performances during the Lunar Theory tour, HaSeul's delivery of both "BURN" and her solo track "Let Me In" demonstrated her ability to "belt her heart out", adding raw emotional power to the group's stage presence.

Visual storytelling from all ARTMS members

Beyond vocals, ARTMS members collectively tell "BURN's" story through visual elements. The music video, produced by DIGIPEDI, features dynamic black-and-white scenes and choreography-focused segments reminiscent of LOONA's "favOriTe".

Individual teaser photos released for the comeback showcased members in similar mysterious settings, with Choerry appearing "against the mysterious backdrop seen in other members' concept photos". This visual cohesion extends to performance stages where their synchronized movements physically manifest the song's themes of renewal and rebirth.

The visual narrative contains subtle lore elements that fans continue to analyze, creating deeper connections to the group's evolving story.

How 'BURN' Sets the Tone for the ARTMS Album Era

Beyond the music itself, the rollout of "BURN" establishes a comprehensive framework for ARTMS's artistic direction and future releases.

Performance debut at Lunar Theory tour

"BURN" first reached audiences through live performances at ARTMS's Lunar Theory world tour, which kicked off with shows in Seoul on March 22-23, 2025, at Ewha Woman's University Samsung Hall. This strategic premiere allowed fans to experience the song's energy before its official release, creating anticipation throughout ARTMS's global fanbase.

The tour served as more than just a concert series—it functioned as a narrative vehicle blending "powerful performances with a grand storyline". Despite technical challenges at some venues, where "members were fighting to be heard" according to attendees, the live debut of "BURN" still received enthusiastic responses. One fan described the NYC performance as "an amazing concert. 11/10".

Additionally, the timing of these performances gained unexpected significance as the official release faced delays "due to an ongoing wildfire crisis in South Korea", adding poignant context to a song about transformation through fire.

Visual concept and teaser rollout

The visual marketing for "BURN" began on March 20 with a teaser clip featuring all five ARTMS members—HeeJin, HaSeul, Kim Lip, JinSoul, and Choerry—posed against gradient backgrounds. Subsequently, individual concept photos were released for each member, starting with HeeJin.

These teasers demonstrated sophisticated visual storytelling, with JinSoul's concept photos featuring the same "mysterious backdrop" as other members, creating cohesive visual language. The aesthetic choices connected to the song's theme of "burning away old memories and starting anew".

What this means for future ARTMS releases

"BURN" explicitly launches what MODHAUS calls the "Lunar Theory" project, positioning the single as the foundation for ARTMS's artistic direction. Since officially debuting in 2024 with "Dall," the group has been "on a mission to redefine themselves while honouring their legacy".

Through this release, ARTMS demonstrates they are "unapologetic, powerful, and ready to light the world on fire". The single signals that forthcoming music will likely continue exploring themes of transformation while maintaining connections to their previous work as LOONA members.

FAQS

Curious fans have raised several questions about ARTMS's "BURN" release. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about this significant comeback.

Where can I find behind-the-scenes footage of the "BURN" music video?

Behind-the-scenes content exploring the deeper meaning of "BURN" is available on ARTMS's official YouTube channel. Alongside the music video, MODHAUS has released special making films that showcase the members' preparation process and highlight key moments from their visual concept shoots.

Why was the release of "BURN" postponed?

The release of "BURN" was delayed at the last minute primarily due to concerns about its title in light of ongoing wildfires in South Korea. MODHAUS made this decision out of respect for those affected by the crisis, illustrating their awareness of social context beyond artistic considerations.

Is there a physical album available for "BURN"?

Yes, ARTMS has released "BURN" as their first single album in physical format. The release includes an "Objekt Music Album" version that contains photocards and other collectibles featuring all ARTMS members. Physical albums are available through various retailers worldwide.

What happens if I order the physical album and it arrives damaged?

For damaged items, buyers must report the issue within 7 days of delivery. Once a claim is filed, customers have 30 days to respond to the follow-up email notification before the claim is closed. Return policies vary between in-store and online purchases, with specific requirements for packaging and timing.

Will "BURN" be followed by other releases in the same concept?

Indeed, "BURN" is part of ARTMS's larger "Lunar Theory" project. Following the musical narrative established in this release, fans can expect future tracks that continue exploring themes of transformation and rebirth while building upon the sonic foundation set by "BURN."

How can international fans purchase ARTMS merchandise?

International shipping is currently available for fans in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Purchasers should be aware that orders shipped outside the United States may incur import taxes, customs duties, and additional fees that are the responsibility of the receiver.