Review and photos: Luke Petty

BABYMETAL’s appeal was vividly on display tonight. If the band’s own fusion of J-pop and metal is a study in eclectic artistry, then the sold-out audience was a masterclass in demographic diversity. Anime enthusiasts, their faces alight with anticipation, mingled with grizzled metalheads, a testament to the band’s ability to bridge seemingly disparate musical worlds.

Bearded hipsters, drawn by the group’s undeniable originality, shared space with families, parents and children alike captivated by the spectacle. It was a fascinating cross-section of subcultures, a living, breathing testament to BABYMETAL’s unique power to unite audiences from all walks of life, proving that their music transcends traditional genre boundaries and forges a connection that’s as diverse as it is passionate. The crowd were pumped for the evening.

Only one support act on the bill tonight and it was none other than mid coast boys Diamond Construct. Fresh off their support on the Windwaker tour the 4 piece from Taree were ready for this one. Instantly Kynan Groundwater flourishing the stage with such energy.

Bouncing around in his sparkled sports suit. I have seen Diamond Construct a few times before but tonight seemed like they meant business. “Faded” really got the crowd going. Groundwater demanded movement from the crowd and movement he received.

Amidst the swirling chaos of the circle pit and the trap-infused aggression, Liam Newman’s drumming stood out. His unexpected, jazzy fills sliced through the relentless sonic barrage, a sophisticated counterpoint to the raw power. I expect more great things for Diamond Construct. They are certainly making a name for themselves and with tonight’s set solidified some new fans.

Just days after Knotfest Brisbane, BABYMETAL delivered a performance of electrifying intensity. The dramatic intro gave way to the explosive “BABYMETAL DEATH,” igniting a crowd reaction of unprecedented volume. The sheer force of the fans’ enthusiasm was a testament to the band’s captivating stage presence and undeniable appeal. If there’s one thing that’s more eclectic than BABYMETAL themselves, it’s the crowds they attract.

While the setlist wasn’t exclusively their most popular tracks, each song’s opening notes were met with a wave of cheers, demonstrating the audience’s thorough knowledge.

BABYMETAL’s choreography isn’t just an accompaniment to their music; it’s an integral, explosive element that elevates their performances to a theatrical spectacle. It’s a meticulously crafted fusion of precision and power, perfectly mirroring the band’s genre-bending sound. The three performers move with a synchronized sharpness that’s both captivating and technically impressive.

“Da Da Dance” and “Metal!” delivered a potent one-two punch, the band’s energy electrifying the Fortitude Music Hall. Every drumbeat resonated with visceral force, a physical manifestation of the music’s power. “RATATATA,” a crowd favorite featuring Electric Callboy, ignited a frenzy.

Though Callboy weren’t there, BABYMETAL’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, transforming the track into a personal highlight of the night. Culminating in the infectious “Gimme Chocolate,” followed by a powerful encore of “Headbangerrr” and “Road of Resistance,” BABYMETAL delivered an unforgettable performance.

As someone new to J-pop, this show was a revelation, clearly demonstrating their rightful place on the Knotfest lineup and sparking a newfound interest in the genre.