It doesn’t take a music expert to know that Japan isn’t the center of the heavy metal world. But that doesn’t mean Japan can’t be home to a heavy metal band like Babymetal, which hails from Japan but is no ordinary heavy metal band. The group blends together elements of heavy metal and J-pop to create a new genre known as kawaii metal, which translates to “cute metal.” It’s truly a sound that the world is just getting accustomed to hearing, which is why anyone who’s appreciative of music that’s unique and different needs to check out Babymetal in person and hear for themselves what makes this group so special.

Born from an Idol

When Babymetal first formed, it did so as a sub-group of Sakura Gakuin, a Japanese idol group. Many dismissed the new group as a novelty that wouldn’t last because its genre of music was previously unheard of and almost unfathomable in musical circles. But a few albums, countless awards, and several tours later, it’s clear that Babymetal is here to stay. Their sound might be unorthodox, but they have struck a chord with audiences. They have headlined world tours, performing at some of the biggest music venues on the planet. At the same time, they’ve also toured in the United States as the opening act of legendary bands like Metallica, Korn, Guns N’ Roses, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. They have surpassed all expectations, making kawaii metal a bonafide part of the musical landscape.

The Dark Side of Cuteness

Unless you have seen Babymetal perform live, it can be difficult to fully describe their style of music. Perhaps the best way is to call it the other, darker side of cuteness. It takes the upbeat and light-hearted side of J-pop and combines it with the edge and darkness that’s often associated with heavy metal. Babymetal’s music is high-energy, fast, and full of screaming and headbanging. But the lyrics also address life in the real world and social issues. Yet, on the outside, there is style, fashion, and plenty of dancing, much like one would find with J-pop. Babymetal is truly a band with a musical style that you have to see to believe.