METAL RESISTANCE

Released in 2016, Metal Resistance is the second studio album by Babymetal and represents a significant evolution from their viral debut. While the first album focused on the novelty of the 'Kawaii Metal' concept, this follow-up leans heavily into technical complexity and genre-hopping ambition. Produced by Kobametal, the album features collaborations with prominent metal figures, most notably Herman Li and Sam Totman of DragonForce on the opening track 'Road of Resistance'. The record is a masterclass in stylistic fusion, incorporating elements of groove metal ('Karate'), progressive metal ('Tales of the Destinies'), and even Viking metal ('Meta Taro'). Critically, it was hailed as a more mature and cohesive effort, with publications like Rock Sound and Kerrang! praising its ability to balance absurdity with genuine songwriting craft. It became the first album by a Japanese artist to break into the UK Top 20 in over four decades, cementing Babymetal's status as a global phenomenon rather than a fleeting internet trend.