BABYMETAL: METAL FORTH
The Japanese metal trio BABYMETAL has returned with their fifth studio album and what a wild ride it is. Packed with unexpected collaborations, including heavy hitters like Bloodywood and Spiritbox, this release marks one of their most adventurous projects to date. Before the album even dropped, BABYMETAL stirred excitement online by joining the viral "Illegal" trend alongside Courtney LaPlante of Spiritbox. The internet buzzed with reactions — some amused, some awestruck — especially at the intense stare of Courtney. (Wait… is that Poppy?) But one thing is certain: the collaboration was electric.
The album delivers pure, unfiltered energy and BABYMETAL serves up an electrifying mix of tracks that blend genres without missing a beat.
RATATATA! came out on May 23, 2024 as a fun team-up with German electronic-metal band Electric Callboy. The music video, full of disco-ball helmets and over-the-top dance moves, became an instant fan favorite. Just two days later, they played it live for the first time at BABYMETAL’s FOX_FEST in Japan, with Electric Callboy joining on stage. Since then, RATATATA! has become a highlight at huge European festivals like Rock am Ring, Download, Slamdunk and more, with crowds going crazy every time. The song hit music charts in several countries and earned a nomination for Best Cross-Border Collaboration at the 2025 Music Awards in Japan.
My favourite collab of the album, however, is easily “My Queen” featuring Spiritbox. It’s such a powerful visual and sonic combo. The music video showcases Courtney LaPlante (yep, definitely not Poppy) radiating fierce queen energy, complete with a bold presence and clear blocks chess pieces that adds to the intensity.
What follows are a few more captivating collaborations. The “Kon! Kon!” with the explosive energy of Bloodywood, a brutal third track featuring Slaughter to Prevail and the unexpected yet fitting “From Me to U” with the actual Poppy. Poppy remains one of the most fascinating, genre-defying artists out there, constantly pushing boundaries and blending styles in ways only she can. Poppy and Courtney LaPlante is that an accident? Was that lineup a coincidence or a brilliant, calculated move?
One things is certain, BABYMETAL’s fifth album is a fearless, genre-smashing statement that proves they’re still evolving and full of surprises. With unexpected collaborations, strong visuals and relentless energy.
