Released on May 10, 1982, "Rio" marked the second studio album from Duran Duran. The band, consisting of Simon Le Bon (vocals), Nick Rhodes (keyboards), John Taylor (bass), Roger Taylor (drums), and Andy Taylor (guitar), had already gained significant popularity with their debut album "Duran Duran" (1981) and the hit single "Girls on Film." With "Rio," they aimed to push the boundaries of their sound, experimenting with more complex song structures, lyrics, and production techniques.

The album was recorded at various studios in London and Nassau, Bahamas, and produced by Colin Thurston, who had previously worked with the band on their debut. The recording process was marked by creative freedom, with the band members actively involved in shaping the album's sound and direction.

The re-release was supervised by Duran Duran themselves, ensuring that the audio quality and track selection met their high standards. The bonus tracks on CD2 offer a fascinating glimpse into the band's creative process, with demos, live recordings, and alternative versions of familiar songs.