Japan’s premier metal trio answer your questions on choreography, dream cover songs, and the idea of a Babymetal festival
CLOSING IN ON a decade since the release of their debut album, Babymetal have evolved from a WTF curio to a crucial part of the metal firmament.
Across their four records, the band have moved away from their original ‘J-pop meets speed metal’ pitch to incorporate everything from nu metal and hip hop to folk, symphonic and power metal, earning them millions of fans around the world.
The addition of Momometal in 2023 brought the band back up to a trio, and November’s sold-out UK shows showed just how potent this new era is set to be for Babymetal. With Download on the horizon, Hammer took your questions for the trio and prayed to the Fox God that we’d get answers…
Why do you think your music appeals to so many different generations and demographics?
Exbuk, Instagram Su-metal: “We are professionals, not bound by boundaries. We strive to perform to the best of our ability. Because so many different people are involved, I believe that no matter what angle you look at what we produce, it works, and that the reactions of people who grew up in different [creative] fields create something new and interesting. We are OK with changing and being criticised. This is how we’ve grown as a group, so I think a lot of people find us interesting.”
Momometal: “If I were to listen to Babymetal for the first time without knowing anything about us, I’d think that it’s the kind of music that would immediately catch your ears. This is especially true for people who are listening to metal for the first time. I was like that! Because there are so many catchy phrases and melodies, I feel like getting more and more addicted to it, wanting to listen to other songs as well.”
Hammer: Do you think Babymetal opened the door for more Japanese metal bands?
Su-metal: “Some people say that Babymetal’s music inspired them to become interested in Japanese culture and listen to other Japanese bands’ music, so I’d be happy if I could be a bridge between all kinds of music.”
If you could put your music into a videogame, what type of game would it be?
Face Time Police, Facebook Moametal: “Megitsune and METALI!! are full of Japanese elements. How about agame in which a ninja who escapes from the land of ninjas becomes an ordinary citizen, and goes on a quest to become an office worker or a teacher or something, and aims to be the best in various professions? Gimme Chocolate!! is perfect for the pastry chef scene!” Momometal: “I’m sure that the combat type game would definitely suit us. Please have Divine Attack at the climax! Also, I don’t know if this could be a videogame, but maybe one where you could create your own
