When cultural fusion meets metal's raw power, something magical happens. That's exactly what we experienced witnessing BABYMETAL and BLOODYWOOD share a stage at Mohegan Arena—a concert that showcased the global evolution of heavy metal and left us breathless despite some venue challenges.
BLOODYWOOD exploded onto the stage with their unique blend of traditional Indian instrumentation and modern metal, immediately converting new listeners with their wall of sound approach. Since their beginnings covering metal classics on YouTube in 2016-2018, they've developed into a powerhouse combining bhangra rhythms, hindi drums, and crushing guitars. What makes them truly special isn't just their musical innovation, but their dedication to social causes—using their platform to speak against sexual assault, raise funds for mental health services in India, and support animal welfare. Their song "Ari Ari," transforming a traditional wedding song into a metal anthem, perfectly encapsulates their genius for cultural fusion.
BABYMETAL followed with a performance showcasing their evolution from kawaii metal teens to commanding women owning the stage. Their elaborate mythology-driven introduction set the stage for precision choreography, powerful vocals, and a masterclass in theatrical metal. The backing band delivered incredible instrumental skill, particularly during spotlight moments for guitar and drums. Classic hits like "Gimme Chocolate" and "Headbanger" demonstrated why metal legends from Judas Priest to Metallica have embraced them. The highlight? Seeing both groups perform their collaboration "Bekhauf" together—a rare moment where Japanese kawaii metal and Indian folk metal created something entirely new.
Despite bass-heavy acoustics challenges that sometimes overwhelmed the arena, both bands demonstrated professional resilience by adjusting their sound and maintaining phenomenal energy throughout. This concert wasn't just entertainment—it was a glimpse into metal's exciting future as a vehicle for cultural exchange and shared energy across continents.
Follow our podcast for more music discoveries and concert experiences, and connect with us on X/Twitter @musicelixir_ or Bluesky @musicelixir.bsky.social we'd love to hear your thoughts on these groundbreaking metal acts!
BLOODYWOOD: Instagram X YouTube official
BABYMETAL: Instagram X YouTube official
NEW BABYMETAL/BLOODYWOOD collaboration "Kon! Kon!"
Please help Music Elixir by rating, reviewing, and sharing the episode. We appreciate your support!
Follow us on:
Twitter
Instagram
Bluesky
If have questions, comments, or requests click on our form:
Music Elixir Form
DJ Panic Blog:
OK ASIA
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
NFL Daily with Gregg Rosenthal
Gregg Rosenthal and a rotating crew of elite NFL Media co-hosts, including Patrick Claybon, Colleen Wolfe, Steve Wyche, Nick Shook and Jourdan Rodrigue of The Athletic get you caught up daily on all the NFL news and analysis you need to be smarter and funnier than your friends.
The Joe Rogan Experience
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.