In a music landscape often dominated by raw aggression and intense heaviness, finding a truly fresh sound can be a challenge. While we appreciate the thunderous chugs, powerful screams, and relentless drumming that define metal, there’s an undeniable artistry in reimagining genre conventions. For the past 15 years, BABYMETAL has mastered this art, consistently blending J-pop sensibilities with heavy metal to forge a sonic identity unlike any other. Their innovative approach has shattered barriers for both Japanese and international artists, leading to remarkable collaborations and, most recently, an electrifying opening theme for One-Punch Man Season 3. We recently sat down with BABYMETAL to discuss their groundbreaking new album, *METAL FORTH*, their inaugural foray into anime openings, and which iconic anime characters best embody their album’s stellar guest artists.
Describing their new album, *METAL FORTH*, MOAMETAL shared, ‘This marks our first album as the reformed BABYMETAL, and it has truly become our most powerful release yet.’ She highlighted the impressive roster of guest artists, whom they see as ‘shaping the future of metal.’ Explaining the album’s title, MOAMETAL added, ‘The ‘forth’ signifies our commitment to keep moving forward, embodying our desire to continuously push the boundaries of metal. I also infused my personal wish into this: May the blessing of *METAL FORTH* be with all of you!’ she added with a laugh.
On becoming the first Japanese band to crack the Top 10 of multiple Billboard charts, SU-METAL expressed her profound joy. ‘I was very happy,’ she recalled. ‘Many people reached out to me after hearing the news, which truly made me realize the incredible depth of support we have.’ She noted that even collaborators like Kevin from Electric Callboy and legendary Rob Halford of Judas Priest sent congratulatory messages. ‘This achievement is entirely thanks to all that support,’ SU-METAL affirmed, ‘so I want to continue working hard, filled with pride in what we’ve accomplished.’
The new album features an array of incredible guest artists, and MOAMETAL, a self-proclaimed ‘biggest anime lover in BABYMETAL,’ eagerly embraced the challenge of comparing them to iconic anime characters. ‘I took this very seriously,’ she quipped, forewarning a lengthy list. Her inspired comparisons included: Poppy as Homura Akemi from *Puella Magi Madoka Magica*, noting her ‘strong yet fragile and gentle feeling’ and matching black hair. Electric Callboy’s vocalists, Nico and Kevin, were perfectly cast as the Mario Brothers, highlighting their supportive dynamic. Slaughter to Prevail, fittingly, was paired with *Berserk*, their own favorite. Bloodywood’s vocalists, Raoul and Jayant, transformed into Saitama and Silver Fang from *One-Punch Man* respectively. Polyphia members Tim and Scott were envisioned as the Zoldyck brothers, Killua and Illumi, from *HUNTER × HUNTER*. Spiritbox’s vocalist Courtney became Lust from *Fullmetal Alchemist*, and legendary Tom Morello was humorously likened to Master Roshi from *Dragon Ball*, ‘even his playful side is spot-on!’ MOAMETAL encouraged readers to explore any unfamiliar anime and even welcomed alternative suggestions, playfully adding, ‘I am also waiting to hear what the artists themselves think!’
Beyond the album, BABYMETAL announced an exciting collaboration with JAM Project for the opening theme of *One-Punch Man* Season 3. SU-METAL expressed her sheer delight at the prospect: ‘I am thrilled to imagine that my voice will be playing in the background while *One-Punch Man* characters are moving around.’ She also conveyed her excitement at working alongside JAM Project, a group she has long admired. MOMOMETAL echoed this enthusiasm, stating, ‘I am truly excited to be part of a significant anime. I hope this song enriches the anime!’ When asked if they were already fans of *One-Punch Man*, SU-METAL confirmed, ‘Yes, we all watched!’ She vividly recalled the Season 1 climactic battle, where metal music amplified the ‘incredibly cool’ animation, evoking ‘chills’ and teaching her new ways to enjoy metal. SU-METAL also drew parallels between the anime’s protagonist, Saitama, and BABYMETAL’s own journey: ‘How people initially look down on Saitama because of his appearance, but then they’re left speechless when they witness his power. I think that overlaps with our own early days in some ways.’
Delving into her personal anime journey, MOAMETAL confessed, ‘I can’t talk enough about my anime journey!’ She revealed her lifelong passion, having been an ‘anime kid’ who watched silently from a young age, starting with shows like *Magical DoReMi* and *Hamtaro* in kindergarten. Her tastes matured to include Hayao Miyazaki’s masterpieces, such as *Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind*. Watching anime remains ‘my happiest time,’ she noted, traversing genres from superhero epics to coming-of-age tales. MOAMETAL admitted a particular fondness for stories ‘featuring cute girls giving it their all,’ humorously adding, ‘For some reason, when a girl with twin tails appears, I just want to cheer her on!’ As a devoted fan, she eagerly anticipates discovering many more great works in the future.
MOMOMETAL offered insights into the natural synergy between anime fans and heavy music. ‘I think the heavier it is, the more it makes their heart race and sends shivers down their spine,’ she explained, adding that heavy music powerfully ‘amplifies the intensity of the visuals.’ For her, films constantly underscore ‘how truly vital music is.’ Interestingly, she also appreciates scenes ‘deliberately left without music,’ recognizing their ability to ‘create a palpable tension.’
Witnessing BABYMETAL’s unique style embraced by a global audience fills SU-METAL with immense pride. ‘Touring the world, I see people of all ages and backgrounds enjoying our music,’ she shared. ‘It makes me happy and proud to feel that it transcends genre and language barriers. Or rather,’ she reflected, ‘that those barriers themselves are embraced as something new.’ Her hope is clear: ‘I hope we can continue to bring happiness to everyone through our music.’
To any new listeners, MOMOMETAL extended an inviting message: ‘I hope you will receive courage and energy from our performance and music!’ She encouraged engagement, adding, ‘There is a shout part that you can join, so let’s sing along with us!’