BABYMETAL

BABYMETAL is one of the first great Japanese music phenomena of the 21st century. Dreamt up by enigmatic producer KOBAMETAL, the then-trio was put together from members of idol troupe Sakura Gakuin. The band's fusion of chirpy idol pop and extreme power metal — dubbed "kawaiicore" by some — has proven a surprise hit at home and abroad.

In live performances, the trio are usually accompanied by Kami Band, a quartet of eminent Japanese metal musicians dressed in ghoulish white robes and make-up.