Babymetal's Anniversary Album Promises a Spectacle
Babymetal, the Japanese metal phenomenon known for their unique fusion of heavy metal and J-pop, have announced their highly anticipated new album, ‘METAL FORTH,’ slated for a worldwide release on June 13th via Capitol Records. This announcement, arriving fittingly on the band's annual 'FOX DAY' on April 1st, which also marks their 15th anniversary, has ignited fervent excitement among their global fanbase.
'METAL FORTH' signifies a bold step for the trio of SU-METAL, MOAMETAL, and MOMOMETAL, promising a sonic landscape that ventures "beyond metal," as suggested by its title. This ambition is underscored by an impressive roster of collaborators from across the contemporary music spectrum. The album will feature contributions from the enigmatic Poppy, the progressive metalcore titans Spiritbox, the legendary guitarist Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine fame, the genre-bending Indian metal band Bloodywood, the instrumental progressive rock maestros Polyphia, and the extreme metal force Slaughter to Prevail. Adding to the anticipation is the inclusion of their already successful streaming track ‘RATATATA,’ a collaboration with the German electronicore outfit Electric Callboy. Fans can also look forward to the release of the next single, ‘from me to u,’ featuring Poppy, on April 4th.
The announcement of ‘METAL FORTH’ was strategically timed with the unveiling of Babymetal's 'LEGEND MAP,' a visual representation of their plans for their 15th anniversary year. This map hints at a year packed with activity, including the album release and extensive touring.
Adding to the celebratory fervor, Babymetal are embarking on their first-ever headline arena tour across the UK and Europe in May 2025. This significant tour will feature support from Poppy and the uniquely captivating Bambie Thug. The tour is set to culminate in a landmark performance at The O2 Arena in London on May 30th, a feat that will see Babymetal become the first Japanese group to headline this prestigious venue, marking a significant milestone in their international career. The tour will span across eight countries, encompassing twelve shows, bringing their distinctive brand of metal to a wider European audience. Following their European dates, Babymetal will also embark on their largest North American tour to date, commencing in Houston on the album's release day, June 13th, with support from Black Veil Brides, Jinjer, and Bloodywood on select dates, further solidifying their global presence.
‘METAL FORTH’ follows Babymetal's 2019 album ‘METAL GALAXY’ and their more recent 2023 concept album ‘THE OTHER ONE.’ While ‘METAL GALAXY’ explored a vastness of metal subgenres and ‘THE OTHER ONE’ delved into a specific narrative concept, ‘METAL FORTH’ appears poised to be a celebration of collaboration and boundary-pushing musical exploration, aptly reflecting their journey over the past fifteen years. The diverse range of featured artists suggests an album that will weave together disparate sonic textures, creating a tapestry that is both distinctly Babymetal and refreshingly innovative. The inclusion of artists like Tom Morello, known for his politically charged riffs and experimental guitar work, alongside the ethereal and genre-fluid soundscapes of Poppy, and the intense metalcore of Spiritbox, hints at a multifaceted album that will likely surprise and delight listeners.
As Babymetal enters their fifteenth year, their signing with Capitol Records signifies a new chapter in their already remarkable story. With a new album promising a departure into uncharted sonic territories and a global touring schedule that includes headline arena shows, Babymetal's 'METAL FORTH' era is shaping up to be their most ambitious and potentially their most impactful yet. The 'LEGEND MAP' unveiled on FOX DAY serves not just as a schedule of upcoming events but as a declaration of intent – Babymetal are not just celebrating their past; they are forging a bold new path into the future of metal.
