Rob Halford: Babymetal are one of the most unique metal experiences in the world

(Image credit: Daniel Boczarski - Getty)

Rob Halford has praised Babymetal and called the Japanese phenomenon “one of the most unique metal experiences in the world.”

The Judas Priest frontman joined the band onstage at the 2016 Alternative Press Awards and later said he was delighted to be invited to “headbang along with them.”

And in a new interview, Halford has once again given them the official Metal God seal of approval and says they still sound great – even after last week’s departure of Yuimetal.

He tells Bandwagon Asia: “I think Babymetal are one of the most unique metal experiences in the world right now. Not only their appearances, and their style and everything that surrounds them visually, but they're an incredible band as well.

“I met them a couple of years ago in America and they're so passionate about metal, they know everything about metal music and they've created a very special feeling and experience within the entire world of metal.

“They work extremely hard to create something unique and I think it's paying off and they're doing such an amazing job.

“In fact, I was watching the new music video for Starlight and even with one member leaving, they still sound great.”

In a statement last week, Yuimetal apologised to Babymetal fans but also expressed her desire to continue to make music under her own name Yui Mizuno.

Priest, meanwhile, will hit the road with Ozzy Osbourne on his No More Tours 2 shows in early 2019 and have been confirmed on the bill for next year’s Download Australia.

Artists

Scott has spent 37 years in newspapers, magazines and online as an editor, production editor, sub-editor, designer, writer and reviewer. Scott joined our news desk in 2014 before moving into e-commerce in 2020. Scott maintains Louder’s buyer’s guides, highlights deals, and reviews headphones, speakers, earplugs and more. Over the last 12 years, Scott has written more than 11,500 articles across Louder, Classic Rock, Metal Hammer and Prog. He's previously written for publications including IGN, Sunday Mirror, Daily Record and The Herald, covering everything from news and features, to tech reviews, video games, travel and whisky. Scott's favourite bands are Fields Of The Nephilim, The Cure, New Model Army, All About Eve, The Mission, Cocteau Twins, Drab Majesty, Marillion and Rush.