Puscifer’s “Rev 22-20”: Simple Song or Grand Tribute to the Succubus?

"Lillith" by John Collier (1892)
A succubus of ancient mythology.
Listen to Puscifer's "Rev 22:20" here!!

In religion, mythical stories, art, and literature, the Succubus character is identified as a demonic being disguising itself in the female form, often victimizing men in their dreams and reality. These malevolent spirits are characterized by their inexhaustible pursuit of the male soul, heart, and men’s obsessive adoration through sexual intercourse. These women thrive on seducing their victims, gaining more and more power with each conquered soul. A succubus is a master seductress, manipulator, and deceiver, displaying zero remorse for the lives and men they ruin. So, I strongly advise all of my male readers to run if you ever come across one of these hell-beings, but, of course, you’ll be too enraptured with the alluring charm of the succubus’ sexuality, so you’re pretty much screwed.

Apparently, Puscifer’s frontman Maynard James Keenan had an interaction with one of these succubians, recording his experience in the hit “REV 22:20.” Of course, we don’t really know that he met such a demon, but we can logically assume that he wrote this little tune about a woman, or temptress, who possessed similar qualities to a succubus being. The pulsating rhythms in the work, beginning with voice projections from a female singer constructs a fascinating musical opening, literally drawing the listener in. When Keenan’s vocals begin, one can feel his desire for this woman, claiming that “If [he’s] gotta sin to see her again then [he’s] gonna lie, lie, lie.” In addition, the raspy, low nature of his voice further exposes his desperation to be with this individual, peaking approximately 3 minutes and 35 seconds into the ballad, fiercely claiming that “[His] pulse has been rising/ [His] temples are pounding/ The pressure is so overwhelming and building/ So steady now freddy,” affirming that he’s “ready to blow,” finally begging “What is she waiting for?” Evidently, he fell right into the succubus trap, as all men do.

Moving on from my brief analysis of the song, I would like to share my own opinion of the work, hopefully offering you an understanding about why I love “Rev 22-20” so much. I find this piece absolutely enthralling, not only for its overall amazing sound, but the lyrics are so incredibly unique that I couldn’t help but adore this particular piece of music. Maynard is expressing a conventional, common feeling shared among most men when they have such passion for a woman, but he expresses this generic desire in such a non-generic, exotic way, incorporating several biblical references to display his feelings, which you may read/listen to for yourself. He uses symbols of purity to display his raw, filthy, impure devotion, executing the intent of the song exquisitely, showing his borderline obsession with having intercourse with this deceitful, fascinating woman. Not a particularly easy feat to accomplish when referencing Christ and his family, yet Keenan is thoroughly successful in his delivery, simultaneously exposing the true creative magnificence behind this piece of art.

Maybe I fell for the gimmick, but I also love the song for its depiction of such an awesome person. Though I’m not a demon, it definitely helps bring out the succubus present in the female listener, including myself. I apologize for making such a mildly embarrassing admission, but it’s true. The succubus in the song will not tolerate a guy’s bull-shit, a quality I admire and one that every girl has room to strengthen. Clearly, the speaker of the song admires that quality too, as most men secretly do. Seriously, they’re always looking for that girl who will, in some ways, put them in their place when they mess up. So, you should never feel sorry for speaking up for yourself or rejecting someone. Standards are so important for girls to have and, even if it doesn’t work out, at least you’ll have his respect.

Alright, there you have it- my opinion on Puscifer’s “Rev 22-20.” And please, I deeply encourage you to listen to the song and think about the types of feelings it triggers in you. I would love to hear various perspectives on the piece, so don’t be shy and please let me know if you love it, hate it, or have had similar experiences discussed in the song!