The queen singing this opening song live on the iron throne was so badass! And her voice was much better live singing the first few lines.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Jealous!

SU-METALの声じゃなきゃ駄目な身体になってしまいました。 いつも素晴らしい動画をありがとうございます。

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

ハッ! ありがとうございます

@kinaarareFULL-MOON

Жыл бұрын

ワシもそう思う me too

I was lucky enough to be at Makuhari Messe for the concerts last weekend, and I have to say that this studio recording, while better than most of their older ones, still doesn't hold a candle to the live performance. When I initially heard the studio version I wasn't grabbed by it and actually felt a but underwhelmed. A few more listens to it and I started to come around on it and actually like it, but when I saw it at Makuhari it completely blew me away; I wasn't prepared for just how overwhelmingly powerful Su's presence is in person and how much the live performance with the crowd all around would make the song more powerful. I agree with your analysis that this is a rallying cry to The One to gather together again because Babymetal is back, because it certainly felt that way in the arena. I know you haven't yet had the chance to see them live AJ, but you need to make it happen as soon as you can. Makuhari was my first live Babymetal show and I'm no overselling it by saying that it was a lifechanging experience. Edit: I'm with you on the Oh Majinai shade.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Yeah, I'm hoping to catch them later this year, though I don't think I'll get the chance in Japan alas (I doubt they'll announce more shows for the period I'm there). Very jealous that you got to see them! Thanks for the comment.

@htusda1

Жыл бұрын

@@AndrewHartley Their next live in Japan is April1 and 2 at PIA in Yokohama!

Terrific analysis, thank you! @29:36 _Raise your sword - the oath sword_ The current promotional image of this era is Babymetal sitting on thrones made of hands raising swords (and of some forming the fox sign). Obviously inspired by and referencing Game of Thrones but different in that the swords aren't trophies taken from the conquered, they are being raised by hands, by people.... by the support of The One. That throne was literally and physically supporting Babymetal at the start of the last concert as Su-metal, seated, sang METAL KINGDOM.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Good point about the throne. Thanks!

AWESOME! I am loving their new sound (and great call out on those moaning it doesn't sound like old BM). One thing about both Monochrome and Metal Kingdom is the power, maturity, clarity, and prominence of Su's vocals. Damn but she sounds utterly amazing - her voice is so so powerful and clear. One thing I saw another reactor say about her was she was a stage general - she doesn;t merely have her audience in her hand she has them gripped in her fist - by both her vocals and stage presence.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Hey Paul. Been a while :). Thanks for the comment. Totally agree with your observation.

@paulbenwell3560

Жыл бұрын

@@AndrewHartley Insightful and enjoyable as always.

Again I appreciate your analysis 有難うございます💛。 I was so lucky to be an eyewitness of both Makuhari Day-1 /2 from Super Mosh'sh zone. Speaking of guitar solo, Ohmura did a short but beautiful solo in "The Legend (= Coffin)". "Lord" issue is connected to another issue: what the "Kingdom" is, because I believe the lord must be the central figure of the kingdom. It can be anything depending on what kind of image you have by this word. Could be an imaginary troop led by a brave hero in an animated kingdom. Or could be a country that is fighting against invaders that have more powerful force. (I recall that the last country BM performed in 2020 was Russia and Koba answered in an interview that the fact gave serious influence on the Team BM in 2022.) This spectacular song was good opener for the concert and it was good idea that BM had released it prior to the Makuhari show. The audience could sing along with BM - Oh oh oh o o o. This must be the opener at the Yokohama shows in April, too. In my opinion, the most important part of the lyrics is "No need for words of regret or way to retreat. Live your future at the place full of light" (Thank you, funny toss) The title of Makuhari show was "BM returns - The Other One". That was appropriate. Su and Moa returned. The title of Yokohama shows was announced to be "BM begins -The Other One". Not "restart" or "resurgence" or "re-(something)" but just "begins". That should be the totally new beginning of BM discarding their old and residual image lingering around the them. Therefore, they need new 3rd partner for Su and Moa. That is my belief. In this sense, the Kingdome that should stand up could be Team BM itself and it may be the Team who needs the Freedom. Accordingly, the Lord could be Su and Moa.

@lencooke944

Жыл бұрын

Flugelhorn, this is insightful. I really appreciate suggestion for the lyric interpretation: "No need for words of regret or way to retreat. Live your future at the place full of light" (Thank you, funny toss). This makes so much sense to me. This is why I love this community.

@flugelhornoldman1362

Жыл бұрын

@@lencooke944 Thank you.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for your response, and especially for contextualizing it in terms of the show. I hope to have a video talking about the recent performances soon, though I will be dependent on what others report since I couldn't be there. Feel free to send me any thoughts you have and I'll incorporate them. And--as ever--your response here is very much appreciated.

@michelm.6033

Жыл бұрын

Sir, I always knew you were a wise, “elder.” You’re not that much older than me, but considerably wiser. I appreciate your cultural take on the word Lord. I believed it to be in reference to the Fox God and not Christianity, but much is lost in translation when considering cultures. Thank You.

@flugelhornoldman1362

Жыл бұрын

@@AndrewHartley Thank you professor. "Contextualization" ... a new word added to my vocabulary. I want to use it somewhere and make me look intellectual 😄

Everything I was picture over this song performed live it meet up my expectations and beyond, a new epic anthem for me and totally love how SuMetal mature with this one, she's simply beautiful than ever. Thanks for sharing this in-depth analysis, Andrew.🦊🤘👑

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Thanks, man!

Amazing breakdown. Great job, professor. And yes, in my opinion, this is the definitive album (and show) opener. Some people just don't understand that this is the introduction of a concept album and must be perceived from that point of view. So, no crazy guitar solos, not an evident conclusion. Just epic, grandiose sound and Su's flawless vocals. But I also love this one as a song individually, in the same way I love classical music. And I know it hits emotionally live. I can't wait to experience it myself.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing!

Thank you professor as always. I deeply appreciate your knowledge and reactions. I’m a huge fan of Su-Metal’s vocals. This song increased my appreciation of her, if that’s really possible. I will highlight one of your comments which is to paraphrase, grow with us. I fully understand folks that want to hear the same stuff over and over. However, I’m specifically drawn to this group for their fearless direction. They don’t travel the well trodden path. Much respect.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Yes, I love their inventiveness. Thanks for the comment!

@michelm.6033

Жыл бұрын

Sorry, I need to add one postscript. They always (nearly) have a positive message, which is really attractive.

Thanks AJH for this walkthrough. You cover multiple layers and dimensions (harmonics, melodies, rhythm, effects, lyrics, vocals...) and explain how they interact with each other to create the experience we get when listening to this song. Such analysis always adds aspects to my own perception and understanding of BM's songs, and I really appreciate it. With respect to Su's vocals: I agree that they are really showcasing her abilities here. In particular I love her use of vibrato now. She is so able to emphasize certain phrases with her clear voice, from strong to soft, highlighted with just the right amount of vibrato, that it sends shivers down your spine. Some say that the new songs lack heaviness, especially breakdowns. And the songs really bait you with buildups where you would expect then a breakdown of some sort. Instead, often it is "just" Su's voice coming back, even a cappella for a short amount of time. It always feels to me like "don't waste your time with instrumental breakdowns, you are in my realm now". ;)

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Yes, I agree. I would, of course, still like the occasional guitar solo, especially in a live show, but I like the new direction and feel it show cases the core elements well. Thanks for the comment!

Thanks Professor. Really enjoying the depths you bring to these analyses. To me, the standout from this song is the changing quality of Su's voice - specifically, the increasing emergence of a real timbre/colour to her voice. Su has always had impressive pitch control and range, but (to be expected as someone so young) had a fairly 'straightforward' tone. As she has grown, her voice has acquired significantly more colour and depth, and it's very apparent in Monochrome and now in MK. It adds another layer to BM musically, and supports and enhances the increased emphasis on the more complex themes their music is now exploring.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Totally agree. Her voice seems to get richer all the time. Thanks for the comment!

Yeahhh!! 🤘🦊🤘 Thankyou Professor 🖤

Welcome back Professor, this is an excellent breakdown of Metal Kingdom. There are so many things happening here that I don't know where to focus. Metal Kingdom has such a big sound that I cannot wait to see a live performance of it. This song will be a massive, impactful and glorious concert opener. As usual, you are able to focus on themes and sections of the song that I would have otherwise overlooked. So, as a non-Japanese speaker, thankyou for pointing me in the right direction on potential meanings. I also liked how you dipped your toe into the structure of the song as well. It is really helpful to have someone point out chord progressions in a song, particularly if people, like me, don't have a strong understanding of music theory. Professor, this is again a masterclass in synthesizing Babymetal's music, lyrics and more importantly, the message that Babymetal might be trying to convey. Thankyou again for taking the time to contribute to the understanding of this song in such a meaningful way. Keep the good stuff coming.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Thanks, Len. In some ways not having video to respond to probably made me focus purely on the sound: not a bad thing. As always, appreciate your support!

excellent content Professor Andrew-Metal, your insight is awesome, the recent shows from what I've seen on fan cams was pretty epic, I think Koba is teasing our emotions with the fox-day shows, I don't think Yui is coming back, but we may have Momoko written into the lore, maybe the fox-god used divine intervention to cause Momoko"s family to move to Yui's hometown when she was a baby, because Yui's light was sent there, it would be very cool if she made an appearance on fox-day to kinda hand over her light to Momo, cementing her with an official Metal name, she is gonna be 20y/o by then, they could add the sacred words back to BMD shin version or bring back the original and it would be a perfect opportunity to perform the special Headbanger version 20th year, and have Su hand the bejeweled mic stand and have MOMO-Metal sing the rest of the song like Yui did at 15y/o and Moa did at 15y/o and 20 y/o, please pardon my wild speculations, but I love the lore and am always thinking about it.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

I can never decide how seriously to take the lore. I think it adjusts (like any narrative project) as circumstances evolve which, in this case, means that the story can be rebuilt around whatever decision they make. I guess we'll see. Thanks, as always, for your comment, Marty!

By the way. the intro to this video, is 'Kiss at a Rainy Night' (雨夜の接吻, Amayo no seppun), right? 😀 The arpeggio sound in the intro, I thought it is a little different from the sound of the Japanese Koto (琴, guzheng)... I am not sure, but when I first heard this song, for some reasons, I imagined the ancient Orient region.. After the intro arpeggio, the powerful beats on the drums and the mechanical metallic sound of the synthesizer, those remind something of dry land, wilderness, or harsh, icy nature. Su- begins to sing along with no cheerful, but the lyrical background, and just by listening to this part, I always start to cry like a waterfall, just like you said. I hate getting old because every screws in my whole body, loosen up, right?, haha.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Interesting, take. Thanks! Love the Atarashii Gakko shout out :)

🤘👑 Definitely happy to see you continuing with 'THE OTHER ONE'. I always look forward to your deep dives. Like many people, I would have cut some of the "whoa-oh-ohs" on the studio track, and extended that section in concert, much like 'Road of Resistance' - Live in Japan. That's really my only quibble about this song. Su sounds amazing on this album, and we haven't even heard what she's going to do with 'METALIZM' yet. I agree with your "Raise your hands to the Lord" interpretation. When I first heard that line in the song, I thought that some folks would definitely be taking it out of context.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Yes, I feel the same. Song could be 30 seconds or so shorter, then extended for live shows, but that's a minor quibble. Cheers!

@rickwagner-

Жыл бұрын

@@AndrewHartley As you're probably aware, the new official music video for this song just dropped. It's concert footage with the studio audio track. Looks amazing. kzread.info/dash/bejne/c4Cu0NKacrq7hNI.html

I was looking forward to your analysis for this song - and I was absolutely not disappointed, it was fascinating as always, thank you. From the songs that have been released and the snippets of those we are yet to hear in full, and I may be wrong but to me it sounds like this album will mainly focus on and showcase Su-metal's vocals ... and quite right too, she has a beautiful voice and she just gets better and better. I have to agree with you about those moaning it doesn't sound like old BABYMETAL - it is still BABYMETAL and recognisably so, but they are more mature and their sound is evolving again. As ever they are not repeating the all same things they may have done in the past. I would love to see you at a live show and they play 'Oh! Majinai' ... they clearly have so much fun performing it and doing the choreo and I can't see even you resisting the "spell of unattainable desire" and the pull of the Shakariki Mosh'sh.😁🕺

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Ha! Yes, I'm sure that in the moment, all their songs are a blast live. Agree not the vocals too. Beautiful. Thanks!

Great stuff again. Agree with your point about some fans not willing to accept they are a band who always try new stuff. I’m liking this new direction very much. I’ve enjoyed all three songs released so far and my sources who attended the weekend shows are saying the two unreleased songs they performed were very good too. Always great to hear Moa, particularly as clearly defined as she is here in the pre-chorus. As for Su’s voice……..I have long ago ran out of superlatives to describe her seemingly endless improvement. It’s extraordinary; her maturity and control, literally, raises the hair on my neck.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Right there with you.

@JMxx6204

Жыл бұрын

@@AndrewHartley Of course they release a video the day after yours. Of course they do.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

@@JMxx6204 Right??? :)

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

@@JMxx6204 Right??? There go my views for that one

Great work professor I think this song is very powerful and displays SU-METAL at her best I enjoy this kind of analyses Thanks

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Agreed. Thanks!

Nicely done. I liked the song from the first time I heard it. From the opening until the ending. I didn't even know this was the first song on the album. It just sounded like an opening to me. I've listened to too many operas. And like it many opening in classical style you get sometimes a fanfare of all the music you will hear through the rest of the musical piece. Here we get many motifs that Babymetal has used before just used in new ways. The mix of genres. And to a large degree the mix of vocal techniques Su uses throughout the song. Su starts singing with what sounds like an old Japanese style of singing to my trained ears. I just can't nail down the exact style. Then she goes into a more modern style. Later it she switches it up again when singing with Moa. When Moa is leading the chant parts. I don't know why but I think my brain is slipping in a few Moa's into those Oh oh oh o o o's. Am I the only one who hears that? If I get a chance to see them live. I'm chanting Moa oh o o o. For me the lack of a guitar solo means nothing. Because like many times in Babymetal songs when the drums are going crazy it's just part of the music. I hear great guitar parts going through the 3 songs released so far. I can't compare any song lyrics to Monochrome. That song is a master class in composing. IMO anyway. with that said this song isn't anything to sneeze at either. You want a rally song? You got a rally song. Su started this song sitting down on her thrown addressing the crowd. Goes with the calm demeanor that she starts with. Then building from there. There's so much going on with the actual performance. That I can say only Babymetal could pull this off with such style and grace. This is the IMO the best way to describe this song. Majestic.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Majestic is a good word for it. Thanks!

Great analysis Professor, thank you! I really like Metal Kingdom, it's a cool opening song (maybe a minute too long for me) - and the album is shaping up to be amazing, if the rest is as good as the first 3 songs released. I wasn't the biggest fan of Metal Galaxy as a whole tbh, although it had a couple of fantastic songs on it, so I'm anticipating to like T.O.O. more. Btw it can't be a coincidence that they talk of a "lord" in this song and the next track is "Divine attack". T.O.O. being called a concept album, it seems to make sense that the songs are kind of interconected.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Yep, that makes sense. Guess we'll have to wait and see just how closely related the songs are.

「共にあれ」ですが、英語の"May the God be with you"が近いかと感じます　もちろんこれはスターウォーズの"May the force be with you"にもかけていると思われます "lord"に関しては、わたし的には"metal head"のような気がします　 歌詞を通して感じたのは、長い封印が解かれて自分たちのやり方でメタル界"METAL KINGDOM"を突き進んで行く、という決意表明のような気がします ともあれ、BABYMETALのコンサートの演出にはキリスト教を感じさせる演出が多いです　先週末のコンサートでもロンギヌスの槍風のものをSu-METALは持っていましたし…　敬虔なクリスチャンの方たちからすればいろいろ感じることもあるかと思いますが…　素晴らしいショーの一部分とご理解ください 長々と駄文を書いてきましたが、とにかく彼女たちの復活を応援したいと思います 教授のいつも通りの解説、楽しかったです ありがとうございます

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

そうですね、BABYMETALはキリスト教の図像を自分たちの目的のために描いているのであって、特に宗教的な意味を暗示しているわけではないと思うんです。それは確かに良いショーになりますね。コメントありがとうございました。

This was a great way to start my day. 🤘 I personally thought, with the reference to kingdoms, that the Lord in question would be some sort of ruler of that kingdom, but Christians see Christianity everywhere, even and especially in their rulers, so what are you gonna do? I really like this song. I mean, I REALLY like it. It doesn't bring me to tears like some others, it doesn't compel me to move like some others, but it's still got so much power. I've been a little frustrated that even some card carrying BabyMetal fans seem to be under-appreciating it, but even removed from the context of the band and what they've done before, it's a good song. It's not as shocking or impressive instrumentally as they've been known for, but it has a...vision? It's grand and sweeping, almost cinematic. The focus of their music seems to have shifted, and I don't think that's a bad thing. There are so many songs by BabyMetal that I will only watch (though I will also always watch them) because what I like about them is the Entire Package. The stage show. I don't especially care for some of the songs themselves and would never put them on a playlist. This one has been playing in the background on my laptop frequently since it came out. This is something I will draw to, cook to, clean to. This can become part of the soundtrack of my life, where previously, BabyMetal was something I 'did', almost. I *watched* a BabyMetal video or I *listened* to a BabyMetal song, and nothing much else could happen simultaneously because that activity consumed all my attention (I think autism plays a part in that, tho XD). Their newer songs are...less that. They're becoming something I can consume more casually, and as much as I have enjoyed hyperfixating, this is a refreshing and welcome shift in...I don't know, musical sensibility on their part? Both the girls and the concept of BabyMetal are maturing. They still clearly are keeping the live experience in mind, and the songs have always been well constructed, but I feel like they are also becoming more concerned with the final musical product, if that makes sense (and I wonder if the pandemic had anything to do with it, honestly, since performance, at least the kind they were designed for, was out of the question). Every song is not trying to be a stand alone spectacle anymore. I'm sure part of that is due to this being a concept album, but it also seems like they are letting the songs just be songs, you know what I mean? I'm not sure I can even articulate what I mean. XD I just mean to say, I like the direction they are heading. It feels more purely artistic. And I look forward to what comes next. Thank you for the video, as always. 🤘🦊🤘Looking forward to what comes next from you, as well.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Agreed. Thanks for that thoughtful response.

I don't need lyrics for watching a BabyMetal show. Because just watch Moa and Yui dance to understand the lyrics. I don't need lyrics to listen to Metal Kingdom either. Because Su-metal's voice and singing is enough to express the meaning of the lyrics! Thanks for your great analysis.☺️😀😁

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Thanks!

Thank you for this break down, etc. They really do incorporate the 3 levels: the general uplifting/encouraging lyrics, the live experience of being at the concert and the meta-level of the album/concept/new era. "Raise your hands to the lord" I also wasn't sure what to think of it, at some point I thought maybe they just means 'lore' instead ? Kind of joking, maybe. But if it's lord, would it be the metal goddess herself Su-metal ? Or those that own the stage, aka Babymetal ? Their is an interesting discussion to be had there, a question for Kobametal or Babymetal ladies in an interview, maybe. But I doubt that will happen unless they do a song by song discussion as they've had done some of the time. Or maybe things will be clear when we know more about the concept behind the concept album.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Yep. Interesting stuff. Maybe we'll learn more from he subsequent songs. Thanks!

@autohmae

Жыл бұрын

@@AndrewHartley Babymetal just posted official lyrics in the comments of the live MV, so no doubts about what I mentioned.

🤘🏽狐🤘🏽

I just have to say that I am absolutely mesmerized by Su's vocals, specifically in the first verse. So mature, so beautiful. Prof. Hartley, excellent work, as always. Thank you for the work you put into your videos. As I always say, your in depth reviews should be mandatory viewing for every Babymetal fan.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

I totally agree! I hope the live show measures up. People say it was even better, but the new video doesn't seem to be using live audio. Cheers!

To me, the line “raise your hands to the lord” simply instructs the fans to “get your fox hands up” to the fox god. The “place of lights” if I remember it correctly, could quite literally mean the concert arena which is indeed a place where there are lights… spotlights.

As always a great reaction. I will probably like this song more when they played it live. The song have a Metal Resistance vibe especially on the message. Su's voice always sharped and I'm glad to to ear Moa, but sadly we don't have the expected third voice. Poor Momoko...

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

I'm still waiting to see who the third will be...

@amartins8213

Жыл бұрын

You can now react to the oficial video of Metal Kingdom.

Yay! Thanks so much for sharing this. I always enjoy your breakdowns/analysis. Cheers!

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

My pleasure!

Thanks. Can’t even begin to respond other than to say that I’m so looking forward to the new album.

Thank you for your analysis. Insightful as always. I was blessed with a ticket to BM for the first time. (1/29) You are correct. This song was the opener and had the air that lead up perfectly to the second song, Divine Attack. Your mention of the chorus as “space for participation” is so very true. We all anticipated the chorus part and were ready! Koba must have timed this release on KZread with this in mind. The sly fellow = fox! Dance moves were as powerful as ever. This being my very first BM live, as soon as I heard Su’s voice, my tear glands burst as for many around me. For me, I confess I did not pick up all the phrases, but could feel they were so powerful. So, after hearing your analysis, I cannot wait to hear it again even if not live. It is sure to add a new dimension for me. My busted tear glands failed me all the way to PA PA YA (Set List: METAL KINGDOM/ Divine Attack/ Distortion/ PA PA YA/ Gimme Choco/ Megitsune/ Doki Doki Morning/ Light and Darkness/ Monochrome/ Headbanger/ IDZ/ ROR/ ending was THE LEGEND. Set list was the same for the first day. (1/28) Then we all went nuts with PA PA YA/ Gimme Choco/ Megitsune/ Doki Doki Morning. Monochrome was also another tear gland breaker. (and a break from all the jumping and shouting) before Headbanger/ IDZ/ ROR. So the performance was continuously an attack on either your tear glands or on your body - nonstop. For all of ROR, I ran around the Mosh pit, twirling my muffler (did not have a BM towel as I should), high-fiving those around the pit. I am so glad I had exercised in the basement for a month! I do not think BM has lost its original (classical) flair. Look at their set list = 5 songs from their new album and 8 from their past albums. It’s just that they have so many great songs, any set list may leave some fans unhappy that not enough of their favourites were there, but as AJH says, they are constantly exploring new horizons and I love this. BTW… I saw many cameras including drones flying about so I expect a Blu-ray to come out.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Nice. Really appreciate the concert summary. Thanks!

Again, your attention to minuscule musical details and the way you point out their possible meaning left me very impressed. Excellent breakdown! I am aware that I have the grace of hindsight here. I totally agree that the song is self referential, announcing the new Babymetal era and trying to get the fans on board. The first line about a passing world would then simply mean the last days/weeks/months of the old Babymetal, the trinity that was broken four years earlier and would end for good on April 1st 2023. I agree to all you have said about its function on the album. In much the same way, the song could work as a show opener, getting the crowed hyped up through its sing-along qualities. Yet on the subsequent tour the show opener was Babymetal Death as usual, while Metal Kingdom was only rarely performed at all. I can imagine two reasons for this: 1) The use of older BM songs on the setlist aimed at helping the fans reconnect by playing lots of stuff they know. This seems to me to be especially important at the beginning of the show. As a consequence, MK did not take over from Babymetal Death. 2) Taken at face value as self referential, the song has but one logical time and place to be performed live: The Black Night concert in Yokohama, preferably opening it. Once the new Babymetal had been summoned by naming Momoko as the new bandmember, the context the song is set in has at least partly vanished, or rather become a part of the past. As always, professor, thanks a lot for everything you are doing in this series. It is very much apreciated.

@AndrewHartley

6 ай бұрын

Yes, it will be interesting to see how many Other One songs stay in the rotation moving forward, especially if a new album is in the works.

For me there is a lot to this song and it will take a while to bloom in full in my thoughts. Very much appreciate your sharing your analysis, professor. And also others, like my contemporary from Japan, Mr. Flugelhorn. Toward the end you mention that 'blade' could be a reference to a person or people. Ah, as in Akatsuki ("the two damaged blades..."). Above all though, it is the strength of the vocals that speak to me. It is a really good song musically: composition, melody, arrangement. I really like how the vocal lines started by Moa are completed by Su-. But all I need of this song is to hear the singing. OMG, Su-metal's singing. Three songs and three different deliveries. Shingeki has much of the belting of older Babymetal. Monochrome has a softness and ease despite the melancholy. But there is such a strong melodic delivery in Metal Kingdom and with a more subtle power than just belting. An iron fist in a velvet glove approach. Thank you, again. As usual over time my lyrical connection to the song will grow, aided by the analysis of others. And now I see the official MV just dropped. Guess what I am doing next. 🤘🦊

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Yes, I meant to reference Akatsuki but forgot. It's a good instance of how this song is doing variations on earlier BM themes. And, yeah, guess I'll be doing the same!

I appreciate you kindly referring to my attempts to interpret the lyrics. In those attempts, I make it a rule to do my best to convey all the implications of the songs. It's my pleasure if I could be of some help to you in building up your analysis of the song.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Your work is always really helpful, particularly when I'm trying to respond reasonably quickly. There's so much nuance I would miss, and I can't analyze something if I have no confidence in the translation (my own included). Thank you so much for all you do.

@Capable-Paramedic

Жыл бұрын

@@AndrewHartley Thanks for your words. For a while, I'm continuing to improve my description, so please refer to it at times. (Slightly edited the "Tomo ni are" part in particular.)

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

@@Capable-Paramedic Excellent. Thanks!

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

By the way, I have been accessing your translations via Funnytoss. Is the link he sent me open to anyone? A friend has been asking where they can read your work.

Now it does make sense

Also something to add: I still see songs like Oh Majinai as a 'live song' not 'album song'. For example the repetitiveness of that song works live (or live video), but not on the album. The video on their official channel for Road of Resistance has a couple of minutes of 'We are ? Babymetal' cut, they actually went to the other 2 bridges as well. It's the kind of repetitiveness which as fine if you are there. And even might feel repetitive on a live video which is why it was cut I assume. Which is why over the years I've left my final judgement of Babymetal songs always to judge it based on the live (video) performance.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Totally agree, yes

As always your analysis deepens my appreciation of Babymetal's emotional content. Your comments starting @28:50 on point. Babymetal has always forged their own path and are continuing to do so. It's important to bask in Babymetal's "Metal Resistance" era for what they gave us. Babymetal is evolving, creating a new path which I thoroughly enjoy. For me "Metal Kingdom" is akin to discovering Babymetal for the first time.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Thanks! Glad it helps :)

My only quibble with your analysis is that it "doesn't sound like Babymetal." Because it does. I think too many people pick their favorite songs from the highly diverse Babymetal catalog and when a song doesn't sound like those particular songs, it doesn't sound like Babymetal. It's kind of silly. That being said, I think there is a lot in this song and in it's creation and while I don't think it is nearly as good as Monochrome, it might be as good as Shingeki in it's own right. Monochrome and Shingeki are just so much more immediate. Metal Kingdom rewards patience. And, does it sound like Babymetal? Well... you mentioned that part of it harkens to Shine. And, I think that is right. I also think there is some Arkadia in there. I think that the koto sounding bit could be a slight reference to Megitsune. I think a lot of the drumming (and even the structure in general) gives me "In The Name Of" vibes. The part that bridges the chorus to the verse give me crazy "From Dusk Till Dawn" deja vu. The lyrics are reminiscent of both "Road of Resistance" and "The One." And, there is some orchestral stuff (not as much as the end of Shingeki) which has always been used within the live space. And, of course, there is Su and Moa. And... frankly, that is Babymetal. Babymetal isn't the sound of the instruments (as good as they are and as good as the Kami Band is live), it's the sound of the vocalists. And, that has always been the case. Is there room for Guitar solos and other instrumental exploration in the world of Babymetal. Of course. I believe there will be songs that have more room for the instrumentation on the album. But, to me, Babymetal has never been about guitar solos. Or breakdowns. Or instrumental greatness. I could name off numerous Babymetal songs that don't have any (or not much of) these things. It's still Babymetal. Can't wait for the next song and the next breakdown. BTW: I know you are always searching for new artists that might peak your interest, so, I'll just drop a link to my best songs (one per band) from last year in hopes you find another artist that you might find interesting. kzread.info/dash/bejne/eKSEpLKKhcesqJs.html

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Yeah, that's fair. I guess I was over-correcting for those who have been pushing back at what they consider a radical new direction. I DO think it's new in certain respects, but it's more a matter of nuance than a radical departure and, like you, I still hear a lot of the old BM in there. Thanks for the comment.

This was fantastic commentary. Thank you!

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Glad you enjoyed it!

the official video relased today

Great analysis. You made me appreciate the song even more then before. Thank you for the lyric translation timed to the song. Because I was curious at 29:23 where she sings in Japanese "toward tomorrow", I swear I thought she sang "Su-Metal" when I first heard the song, LOL!

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Appreciate that. Thank you!

Very good walk through ...

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Thanks!

🍅💀🍅 🤘🏼🦊🤘🏼 Babymetal Kingdom is The best Kingdom !! !! The ONE is the Kingdom 🌸 Amazing walk-through as always.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Thanks!

I could be miles off, but " raise your hands to the lord " , for me , represents the old traditional Japanese thing you mentioned. The reason? I see this song as a build up to a battle or fight. Divine attack follows this on the album. Definitely zero Christian relevance. Referring back to the statue at the legend 1997 show, I thing that is an " idol" if you like of Su. Moa and Yui offer the neckbrace in the opening of the show, and the idol is destroyed for the metal Queen/Goddess is reborn. Again , could be miles off the mark , but it makes more sense to me. As for the cross, for me , zero Christian relevance, as in the original Greek scriptures ( Latin is much later) the word Stauros is used , translates to stake. No cross is mentioned in original scripture. I digress. Looking forward to hearing the full concept album and your views on it. 🦊🦊💥🦊🦊

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Yeah, crucifixion also has a long history as a form of execution in ancient Japan. Thanks for the comment.

Interesting, as usual. I never even questioned my original understanding that „the lord“ was God. And as a non-religious person, I felt a little disappointed that BABYMETAL would come at me with a religious message. So I‘m happy to hear that it’s probably not like that. Interestingly, all three of the new songs took multiple listens for me to appreciate. I found this one boring at first. I now think that was mainly due to the chanting part, which I wasn’t a fan of (it reminded me of soccer worldcup themes, but thankfully my brain created some new connotations now). It’s pretty prominent, but I later noticed that the context constantly evolves, leaving no room for boredom at all. I particularly like the part 2/3 in when Su lays her urgent pleas over it, the rhythm of the drums and vocals create a great intensity. But my favourite part is still the first verse and pre-chorus because of the beautiful and clear vocals. By now I think it may be my favourite of the three songs. I don’t quite agree with what you said about fans not being thrilled with the new direction. BABYMETAL had a very unique approach, and despite the large variety in their music, their vibe was quite „specific“ (if that makes sense). So I find it perfectly understandable and reasonable if fans miss that and need some getting used to a new direction. Of course, it all depends on the way they are uttering their doubts. But openly voicing and discussing them in social media like Reddit or (less so) KZread is not a bad thing, in my opinion. On the contrary, I think that’s exactly the right place and audience to talk about it. Unless it ends up in constant bitching, of course.

@jeffschreifels8651

Жыл бұрын

I think it's about allowing an artist to express themselves and not forcing them to manufacture a product. We cannot be forced to like that expression of art but I imagine he's referring to anyone suggesting it's wrong for Babymetal to evolve at all.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Yes, I get that people might not like the new sound (in so far as it is truly new). I have no problem with that though I don't agree. What I don't like is the impulse to say that a band should go back to the way it was before, particularly when that seems like it's desire to see them as children again. I just want to see them continue to evolve so that they are excited about and invested in what they produce. If things get stagnant and we get stuck in an endless nostalgia loop, or the band start phoning it in, that would be bad.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Yes, I get that, and I confess I think the song would be stronger if it were about 40 seconds shorter (leave the extended choral singing for the live show), but, like you, I've come to appreciate it a lot. Thanks for the comment!

Another great breakdown as always. Thank you, Professor-metal! I was hoping you would do this song. The whole Lord thing was curious. I knew it wouldn't be anything Christian but I was indeed wondering what it could be. I don't think there are words great enough for Su's vocals. I love the style she uses in that first verse. I also loved the mini rant regarding those who must complain about Babymetal not sounding like the "Old" Babymetal. Looking forward to your Makuhari Messe show report. I'm sure you will get some good info. Kitsune Up! P.S. Don't tell Su-metal about your Omajinai feelings. That might get you an epic Death Glare since it is one of her favorite songs. 😁

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Yeah, I'm sure it must be fun to perform live, and it takes the vocal pressure off her. But when people complain about this song being repetitive and going on a bit long I definitely find myself eying OMajinai :)

Great review as always. It's interesting to hear an analysis at such depth. About the use of the word 'lord'. As you pointed out yourself, Babymetal have used such symbols of Christianity many times before. It is obviously intentional but I have never heard anyone suggest they are attempting to promote it or that it is even about Christianity. To an athiest like yourself, anything remotely religious brings on feelings of anger and hatred but for Babymetal I doubt they feel anything at all about it. They see ideas they can put into their story. That is all it is and, from what I have heard over the years, just about everyone understands that.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

"To an atheist like yourself..."???

Wow, man! That was a great piece of analysis and discussion right there. I really want to thank you for pointing out to those that are or seem to be stuck on their own idea of what Babymetal is and are whining about this new work “not sounding like Babymetal” as the moron that they are. Did every single Beatles, Rush, Who, Led Zeppelin or (you pick your own band here) album sound identical to their previous record? I think not. Your line, “well no shit. Congratulations.” Was priceless and had me rolling on the floor laughing. I don’t think any band has ever released album after album that sound exactly the same and found any meaningful success. While bands do tend to have their own unique or signature sounds they are always expanding their skills and knowledge not to mention the use of new or changing technologies in the instrumental and production worlds that most definitely changed the sound of many groups over time. Frankly I would have been disappointed if this record sounded just like the three prior. Anyway, I always appreciate your take on these Babymetal songs because you are obviously more intelligent than I and my Japanese language skills suck, honestly. I can get a few words here and there unless it is a line that is common in daily lingo of which there are few in their music. Hope all is well and looking forward to hearing the rest of the album on my birthday Mar 19th. At least hoping my preorder album comes before the 19th anyway… 🤞

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Thanks! Glad you liked it. Appreciate the comment :)

Great insight as always, agree 100% on everything 😏, I'm passing by just to let everyone know that the official video is out NOW 🤘🏻🦊⚡

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Thanks for that!

@DeePal072

Жыл бұрын

@@AndrewHartley thank you for your passionate and deep analysis, always a pleasure to watch your videos😊. 🤘🦊⚡

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

@@DeePal072 Thanks!

Thanks for your insight, as always. 10 lords a leaping. 10 hooded figures. Coincidence?

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Could be :)

I find myself struggling to comment on your BABYMETAL videos of late, as other insightful fans chime in to say what I would have wanted to say! Commenting now as the music video (with footage from the shows last week at Makuhari Messe) just released, and it is definitely quite the show and album opener! My thoughts about this song - or rather, not just this one but all that we've heard from TOO thus far is that individually, they may not be quite as distinct as some of their "classics". I have wondered several times what they mean by "concept album", and I've come to the conclusion that it's basically the "Trilogy of Lights" concept taken up to 11 (well, 10 songs, actually). Each song from the Trilogy arguably isn't *that* good individually (bear with me here), perhaps with the exception of "Shine" which is pretty amazing by itself. For example, "Arkadia" to me is somewhat of an inferior imitation of "Road of Resistance" if you compare the two songs head-to-head (mostly because it doesn't leave enough time to breathe like the C&R sections in RoR do). And yet, when you place the Trilogy together, they collectively create something uniquely powerful that none of the earlier songs could. As you say, you cannot lock artists in a box, no matter how much you liked something they created at one period in their creative life. I'd agree that even if BABYMETAL *could* create another cutesy childish joyous "Gimme Choco!!" imitation, they shouldn't; it's been done before. From what I've seen so far, when this album is released and we get to listen to all 10 in sequence, they're once more going to create something that we've never experienced before, and something that doesn't can't be done proper justice when each song is listened to individually. Great to have you guide us through this journey as always!

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Interesting idea. It's hard for me to cast my mind back to when I first heard the trilogy of lights. I think I like Arcadia more than you do, but I take your point. Always great to have your thoughts! Thanks.

@funnytoss

Жыл бұрын

@@AndrewHartley Well, I don't actually dislike Arkadia per se, the point was that even if Arkadia RoR when put together, and I'm guessing the same will apply to TOO as a whole compared to the rest of the discography!

Koba is a genius, he's been telling everyone for the last year that Babymetal is morphing into a new entity in order to survive in the new "metalverse" - taking a page from Marvel (into the "metaverse") and Facebook (META). In Koba's new reality there are multiple worlds all united by Babymetal's music, each world will have different strengths and a different version of Babymetal but combined all the worlds will be stronger. I think "Kingdom" is referring to "The One" - the fans and the lord is Koba. That shining place is the concert venue. Not to be too cynical (I really love Babymetal), but Koba is really pushing this new universe and a new universe will require that the ONE be ready to open their wallets for all the new stuff coming (I've got the Black Box and waiting for the Clear Box). Also, I think the lyrics about singing the song may be about ending the pandemic and audiences being able yell and sing along at the new concerts.

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Interesting. Yes, hadn't thought of the pandemic implication, but that also makes sense. Thanks for the comment!

28:55 Very much this. As for the "raise your hands to the lord" bit, I don't think they mean it in a Christian sense, and I don't think it means that. However, as one who has been steeped in that culture, I cannot help but think of it when I hear the phrase. Those years of indoctrination run deep.

Hi Andrew, i am taking the opportunity to thank you for all your videos, i recently discovered your channel for pure coincidence and i loved it. i love your breakdowns of lyrics, and specially from Japanese songs, since the grammar differs a lot from English and there is more to words than on the average English language, so i really appreciate your work. Having said that i would suggest you a metal band i recently discovered (why it took me so long) called "HANABIE" (if you ever heard of them), so if you can check them out, maybe is worth doing a breakdown of one of their songs one day, who knows. they are slowly getting recognised. I leave you a song of them which contains, let's say, some meaning. kzread.info/dash/bejne/foOnwbahj9TfedY.html

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Thanks! Yeah, I haven't given Hanabie enough of a chance. When I first listened to them I found them interesting, but I didn't really connect to the songs as songs, and was put off by the growl vocal some (just not my thing), but I'll give them another listen. Cheers!

Sorry Professor, excellent work, could not listen to that repetitive chorus again. Su's voice is angelic, but it's too repetitive, it lacks metal, which wouldn't be a problem for the title, and to me is not up to their standards. Tried to watch the whole video, that chorus did me in

@AndrewHartley

Жыл бұрын

Fair enough. To each their own.

@Wombatmetal

Жыл бұрын

@@AndrewHartley it's better when you can see them. Video dropped this morning