Introduction

While Su-metal, Moametal, and Momometal shine center stage, the raw power behind BABYMETAL’s unforgettable live performances comes from the formidable force known as the Kami Band. These elite session musicians deliver the high-octane metal riffs, thunderous drums, and technical wizardry that elevate every concert to a transcendent experience. In this article, we explore the history, evolution, and members of the Kami Band—BABYMETAL’s true musical backbone.

The Origins and Evolution of the Kami Band

The Kami Band was formed in 2013 to support BABYMETAL’s transition from studio project to a fully realized live band. Initially dubbed “Gods of Metal,” the Kami Band’s aesthetic matched their name—white robes, corpse paint, and superhuman instrumental ability. Their role was to back BABYMETAL with complex metal instrumentation, often blending speed metal, progressive, thrash, and djent styles.

Unlike typical backing bands, the Kami Band became a central part of the BABYMETAL experience. They had their own fanbase and were recognized not just for supporting the girls, but for creating a sonic battlefield upon which the choreography and theatrics could flourish.

The original lineup was a mix of some of Japan’s most respected metal and fusion musicians, many of whom had international recognition before joining BABYMETAL. Over time, the lineup has evolved, with permanent members, rotating substitutes, and regional players depending on the tour leg.

Performance Structure and Live Integration

• Live shows often feature instrumental solos or interludes where the Kami Band showcases its virtuosity.
• Setlists are adapted based on the musicians’ strengths, leading to improvised moments unique to each concert.
• Members are never “just background players”—they interact, joke, and battle musically with the singers on stage.

As of 2025, the Kami Band has grown into a legendary entity, recognized by fans and musicians alike as one of the best live metal units in the world. Their seamless blend of showmanship and technical prowess has helped define BABYMETAL’s global identity.

Notable Guitarists and Bassists of the Kami Band

The string section of the Kami Band has always been one of its most celebrated elements. The guitarists and bassists are not only technically brilliant but also bring theatrical presence to the stage—often engaging in synchronized headbanging, back-to-back shredding duels, and heavy riff battles that complement the lead vocals and choreography.

🎸 Guitar Legends of the Kami Band

• Takayoshi Ohmura: Known for lightning-fast solos, Ohmura is a shred virtuoso who also played with Marty Friedman. His work with BABYMETAL added neoclassical flair and finesse.
• Leda: Former guitarist of Deluhi and support member for many Japanese acts. Leda brings progressive metal complexity and melodic depth to the live mix.
• ISAO: A technical master with djent roots, ISAO’s 8-string guitar style helped push BABYMETAL’s sound into a more modern progressive-metal direction.
• Chris Kelly: Often seen on international tour legs, Kelly’s Western metal style fused seamlessly with BABYMETAL’s theatricality.

🎸 Bass Commanders of the Kami Band

• BOH: Arguably the most iconic bassist in the Kami Band, BOH’s 6-string bass mastery is both powerful and elegant. With a shaved head and unmatched groove, he anchors the entire performance with precise technique and flair.
• Yuki: Known for energetic stage presence and dynamic slapping technique, Yuki often covers Japanese tour dates and fanclub-exclusive shows.

These musicians don’t just play; they perform. With face paint, ritualistic posturing, and crowd interaction, they’ve created a signature presence that defines BABYMETAL’s live spectacle. Many fans attend shows specifically to see their favorite Kami members rip through solos and duel with other bandmates mid-set.