GalleryDitch This MagazineJune 12, 2023gallery, live, melbourne, Louie Mosscrop, Ashlee Harris, Babymetal, Reliqa, Margaret Court

Babymetal + Reliqa @ Margaret Court Arena 11-06-23

GalleryDitch This MagazineJune 12, 2023gallery, live, melbourne, Louie Mosscrop, Ashlee Harris, Babymetal, Reliqa, Margaret Court

photos: Louie Mosscrop @louiemosscropphotography
words: Ashlee Harris

Arriving at Margaret Court Arena, it was hard to tell where the BABYMETAL and BlackPink crowds separated as a sea of black descended on Olympic Park. The all-ages show attracted just that, with the 4,800 attendees ranging from six to at least 66, and everywhere in between.

Sydney locals Reliqa opened the show and held their own as they filled the arena with their distinctive combination of fierce guitar riffs, hard hitting drumbeats, commanding and enchanting vocals, and innovative contemporary rhythms. Of particular note was bassist Miles Knox, whose fast footwork and even faster fingers were hypnotising to witness. Dedicating their latest EPs top single “Safety” to BABYMETAL, Reliqa proved they are absolutely deserving of their place on this tour.

Beginning their set with “A long time ago in a heavy metal galaxy far far away…” where the “…spirit of heavy metal traversed across the world and rose above language barriers”, BABYMETAL built anticipation as the energy in the arena became palpable. Their explosive opening, led by a band performing with flawless precision, ignited a fever that had the crowd chanting in unison “B-A-B-Y-M-E-T-A-L” and set the tone for their entire performance.

With their vibrant and energetic stage presence, this Japanese kawaii metal band commanded the spotlight. Su-metal, Moametal and Momometal’s impeccably synchronized dance moves were a visual spectacle led by infectious energy. They captivated the audience from the first note, and soon enough, the crowd became putty in their hands, eagerly devouring every moment, singing along with pure adoration, and forming more circle pits in one show than this reviewer has ever seen.

The crowd went especially wild as the words “Give Me” flickered on screen, with an electrifying performance of fan favourite Gimme Chocolate!! following. This arena energy was only matched by the opening of Road to Resistance, which saw the trio waiving BABYMETAL flags and the crowd spending the entire song with their hands in the air. The tight musicianship, impeccable timing, and seamless transitions showcasing the bands exceptional skill and dedication to their craft.

BABYMETAL concluded their incredible performance with a show-stopping two song encore of METAL KINGDOM and Ijime, Dame Zettai that left the audience in awe. As the final notes reverberated through the venue, the crowd erupted in thunderous applause, their cheers echoing long after the last chord faded and solidifying their status as a force to be reckoned with in the realm of heavy metal.