On November 19th, 2023, the Japanese Kawaii-metal phenomenon BABYMETAL stormed the German capital with WARGASM as a supporting act at Verti Music Hall. The venue was a large new space across from the Mercedes-Benz Arena, and it was filled to the brim. Among the fans, diverse individuals could be seen sporting visual kei and anime-themed outfits.
BABYMETAL initiated the show at 20:00; the lights dimmed, an animated film played on the big screen onstage, and the banging riffs of “Babymetal Death” reverberated throughout the venue. The crowd went frantic when the trio — Su-metal, Momometal, and Moametal — appeared on stage in an energetic, well-choreographed dance.
They maintained the pace for “Gimme Chocolate!!” and “PA PA YA!!,” jumping, dancing in their vibrant cute-Gothic dresses, and singing at the top of their lungs, complemented by the technical, shredding riffs and double drum pedals of the Kami band. The performance continued with “MAYA” and “Syncopation.”
Although the stage was minimalist, it was set up at the highest level; all elements interplayed nicely, and the lighting was impeccable. A videographer appeared on stage, filming the fans from the venue and projecting it live on the screen. Su-metal thanked the fans for coming and asked them to light their phones, holding them up for “Monochrome.” The entire venue resembled a field of fireflies dancing to mellow tunes.
Then came the highlight of the evening; the opening riffs of “METALI!!” echoed, accompanied by an animated movie with traditional Japanese elements on the screen, soon replaced by Tom Morello playing his solo. The entire sequence was perfectly executed and timed, with fans singing along and dancing. The performance concluded with “Megitsune,” “Headbangeeeeerrrrr!!!!!,” and “Road of Resistance.”
The setlist seemed short due to its packed and active nature, except for the mellow “Monochrome,” the only breather in this exceptional storm of cuteness, brutal riffs, and perky dancing. BABYMETAL knows how to put on a great show, and it’s no wonder they remain popular with a dedicated fanbase even 13 years after their hit “Megitsune” tore down the media space. If they ever visit your town, I highly recommend attending for the good vibes and a fantastic show.
Text and photos by Alexandra Aim
Setlist
- BABYMETAL DEATH
- Gimme Chocolate!!
- PA PA YA!!
- Distortion
- BxMxC
- MAYA
- Syncopation
- Monochrome
- METALI!! (preceded by KAMI Band solos)
- Megitsune
- Headbangeeeeerrrrr!!!!!
- Road of Resistance
