Babymetal are back with an infectious new cut, "Starlight," complete with squealing death-metal guitars, an irresistible hook and soaring vocals that show off the Kawaii-metal group's top-notch pop sensibilities. The song's accompanying video is full of cosmic imagery, ending with a scene of the mysterious seven-figured formation that the group has been teasing, as they stare at what looks like a supernova in the sky, their cloaks turning from black to red. What it all might mean is hard to say, but one thing it definitely doesn't symbolize is an imminent reformation of Babymetal's original trio lineup. To the contrary, the group announced today (October 19th) that long-absent member Yuimetal is officially no longer part of the band.
"YUIMETAL had expressed her desire to return performing with the group in the following months after last December's performance due health concerns. During her absence, both SU-METAL and MOAMETAL as well as the entire staff team had been preparing for her awaited return," the band explained in a post on their official site. "However, YUIMETAL came to a decision that she will not be performing at BABYMETAL WORLD TOUR 2018 in JAPAN and that she will no longer be a part of BABYMETAL. We thank her for all of her contributions and wish her all the best in her future endeavors.
"This month's BABYMETAL WORLD TOUR 2018 in JAPAN will mark the rebirth in which SU-METAL and MOAMETAL form the core of BABYMETAL."
