BABYMETAL – ‘Metal Forth’ Review: A Bold, Star-Studded Expansion of Their Metal Universe

BABYMETAL’s ‘Metal Forth’ pushes metal boundaries with epic collaborations and fresh sounds, showing their fearless evolution in the genre.

BABYMETAL’s Unique Metal Journey Continues

For 15 years, BABYMETAL have carved a genuinely unique space in the metal world, blending playful energy with blistering instrumentals that rival some of the heaviest acts out there. This Japanese trio refuses to hold back, especially after an incredible 2025 filled with landmark moments. This year alone, they inked a deal with the powerhouse Capitol Records, headlined their very first European arena tour, and announced their most significant U.S. shows yet, sharing the stage with bands like Black Veil Brides.

‘Metal Forth’: Pushing Boundaries with Star Collaborations

Riding this wave of momentum, BABYMETAL’s fourth album, Metal Forth, amplifies their boundary-pushing ethos with a slew of exciting collaborations. Guitar legend Tom Morello lends his signature style to the track “METALLI!!,” creating a fresh sonic blend that’s both innovative and true to their roots.

Meanwhile, the collaboration with Bloodywood on “Kon! Kon!” injects a vibrant folk-metal element that energizes the track and elevates it beyond many of their previous releases. On “Song 3,” the brutal, growling vocals of Slaughter To Prevail fuse with BABYMETAL’s powerful riffs to form an explosive, experimental metal experience.

Don’t miss the whimsical yet heavy “KxAxWxAxIxI” featuring Djent maestros Polyphia on “Sunset Kiss.” In under three minutes, the trio – SU-METAL, MOAMETAL, and MOMOMETAL – swap relentless heaviness for a more nuanced flow that builds intensity gradually, offering a refreshing break from conventional metal clichés.

Watch BABYMETAL’s ‘Kon! Kon!’ feat. Bloodywood (Official Music Video)

When Collaborations Fall Short

However, not every collaboration hits the mark. The track “From Me To U,” featuring Poppy, struggles to find a harmonious balance and ends up feeling like a patchwork of metal tropes without a clear purpose. Similarly, “RATATATA” with Electric Callboy, despite its high energy, lacks the spark that makes BABYMETAL’s best work stand out.

This shows that while joining forces with big names injects star power, it doesn’t always guarantee success. Some combinations feel a bit forced, diluting the distinctive charm that originally set the band apart.

A Fearless Statement in Metal Evolution

BABYMETAL’s Metal Forth is unquestionably their boldest statement yet. They’re not here to play it safe — they’re challenging the norms of metal with expansive collaborations and new sonic experiments. Although this ambitious approach sometimes waters down their signature style, the moments when everything clicks are nothing short of epic and deeply intriguing.

“Even 15 years into their discography, BABYMETAL are not afraid to push boundaries and are still looking to rewrite the rules of metal.”

This album proves that BABYMETAL’s journey is far from over – their evolution only makes them more exciting to watch.

Album Details

• Record Label: Capitol Records / Universal Music
• Release Date: August 8, 2025

Conclusion

BABYMETAL’s Metal Forth is a daring leap into new territory, blending star-studded collaborations with their distinct style to create a compelling metal experience. Would you say this album marks a new era for the band, or does it stray too far from their roots? Either way, it’s clear BABYMETAL continue to challenge metal’s boundaries in ways few others dare to.

FAQs

• What makes ‘Metal Forth’ different from BABYMETAL’s previous albums?
  This album features numerous high-profile collaborations that introduce new sounds like folk and djent elements, expanding their usual metal style.
• Who are some featured artists on ‘Metal Forth’?
  Collaborators include Tom Morello, Bloodywood, Slaughter To Prevail, Polyphia, Poppy, and Electric Callboy.
• Are all collaborations successful on the album?
  While many tracks shine with fresh energy, some collaborations like those with Poppy and Electric Callboy feel less cohesive and dilute BABYMETAL’s core sound.
• How does ‘Metal Forth’ reflect BABYMETAL’s evolution?
  It showcases their willingness to experiment and push genre limits, proving they’re unafraid to evolve even after 15 years.
• Where can I listen to ‘Metal Forth’?
  The album is available through Capitol Records and Universal Music across all major streaming platforms since its release on August 8, 2025.

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