Live Review: Babymetal – Knotfest Sideshow, Brisbane 2025

ARTIST: BABYMETAL
VENUE: FORTITUDE MUSIC HALL
DATE: MARCH 6TH 2025
PHOTOGRAPHER: MERT TYSON PHOTOGRAPHY
REVIEW: MERT TYSON

BABYMETAL Unleashes Kawaii Metal Fury: A Mind-Blowing Night of Headbanging and High-Energy Charm – BABYMETAL World Tour – Brisbane, Fortitude Music Hall

When BABYMETAL announced their World Tour with a stop at Brisbane’s Fortitude Music Hall fresh off the Knotfest buzz, fans braced themselves for an otherworldly experience. And let me tell you, they delivered a show that was equal parts fire, glitter, and headbanging euphoria—like a sugar-coated hurricane in the form of a heavy metal concert.

BABYMETAL for those who have been living under a rock hails from Japan and emerged as a groundbreaking phenomenon that blends the intensity of heavy metal with the sweet, bubbly aesthetic of J-pop and idol culture. The group is credited with birthing the “kawaii metal” genre—think brutal riffs paired with infectious, sugary hooks. Led by the immensely talented Nakamoto Suzuka, aka SU-METAL (vocals and dance), Kikuchi Moa, aka MOAMETAL (screams and dance), and formerly Okazaki Momoko, aka MOMOMETAL, BABYMETAL has managed to charm hardcore metalheads and pop enthusiasts alike. Their infectious energy and genre-defying style have introduced metal to a whole new audience.

The Show: Unleashing the Metal Tsunami: BABYMETAL’s Electrifying Brisbane Takeover!

From the moment the lights dimmed and the ethereal opening notes rang out, the atmosphere in the Fortitude Music Hall was electric. The cyclone on the Brisbane coast is pending but the storm came to The Fortitude Music Hall when the trio stepped onto the stage adorned in their signature, elaborate costumes—intricately designed, unique, and undeniably BABYMETAL. Picture gothic princess-meets-cyber warrior attire, shimmering under the lights.

Opening with a Bang: “BABYMETAL DEATH” The night began with the theatrical and intense “BABYMETAL DEATH,” setting the tone for an epic concert. With its ominous chanting and explosive energy, the track whipped the crowd into a frenzy from the start. The dramatic lighting and synchronized choreography immediately captivated the audience, promising a show packed with thrills.

SU-METAL’s soaring vocals were nothing short of mesmerizing, effortlessly slicing through the thunderous guitars and pulsating double bass drums. MOAMETAL’s energetic screams and sharp dance moves added layers of theatricality that kept the audience captivated. Their synchronization was so flawless it felt like they had been programmed by the gods of choreography themselves.

The Groove of “DA DA DANCE” and “PA PA YA!!” “DA DA DANCE” brought a vibrant and infectious groove to the stage. Its upbeat tempo and catchy hooks had the audience dancing along in a unison of pure joy. Later, “PA PA YA!!” cranked up the festival vibe with its wild energy and relentless pace, creating an atmosphere that felt part-concert, part-party, and entirely unforgettable.

Heavy and Hard-Hitting: “BxMxC” and “Distortion” For the heavier side of the spectrum, “BxMxC” delivered a hard-hitting rap-metal hybrid that resonated deeply with the crowd, showcasing BABYMETAL’s ability to experiment with genre while staying undeniably heavy. Similarly, “Distortion” brought crushing riffs and a darker edge, proving that BABYMETAL is just as comfortable conjuring mosh-pit madness as they are crafting pop-infused melodies.

Classic Favorites: “Megitsune” and “Gimme Chocolate!!” A BABYMETAL concert wouldn’t be complete without the fan-favorite classics. “Megitsune” dazzled with its blend of traditional Japanese influences and modern metal—a testament to the band’s innovative artistry. And, of course, the unmistakable “Gimme Chocolate!!” ignited a collective singalong as the audience celebrated the playful chaos and infectious charm of this global hit.

A Stunning Ballad Moment: “Monochrome“ In contrast to the high-octane tracks, “Monochrome” offered a poignant and emotional moment in the set. SU-METAL’s vocals shone, filling the venue with raw power and grace, while the atmospheric lighting created a dreamlike effect that left the crowd mesmerized.

The band’s stage presence is almost unreal. The fusion of their crisp, high-energy dance routines with jaw-dropping visuals and pyrotechnics created an experience that felt more like an interdimensional portal than a concert. And the music—oh, the music—was a headbanger’s dream. Their skilled backing band, The Kami Band, unleashed a torrent of blistering riffs and technical precision that left the crowd in awe. They played with an intensity that could make a volcano blush.

The audience was a wild mix of die-hard metal fans throwing up devil horns, curious newcomers dancing along, and cosplayers dressed as their favorite BABYMETAL members. The connection between the band and the crowd was palpable. Whether it was SU-METAL’s gracious smiles, MOAMETAL’s playful interactions, or their synchronized waves, BABYMETAL had the crowd eating out of the palm of their hands.

This wasn’t just a concert—it was a full-blown sensory assault of light, sound, and unfiltered joy. BABYMETAL has a way of turning sceptics into fans, and Brisbane was no exception. Their blend of heavy music, unmatched showmanship, dazzling visuals, and unique charm makes them a band like no other. If you ever get the chance to see them live, take it—you’ll leave wondering if you’ve just witnessed a glimpse of the future of metal. Brisbane won’t forget this night anytime soon a pleasure being there, as always thanks to everyone involved making this happen.

\m/ert 🎸🤘🎤🔥⚡🎶🤟💀🖤☀️🌏✨

Setlist Brisbane 04.03.2025 Fortitude Music Hall