Few metal lineups could be more eclectic than a co-headline tour with Babymetal and Dethklok. Even with vastly different styles, the atmosphere was electric as both acts played to a highly enthusiastic crowd on August 31 in Dallas, Texas at South Side Music Hall.

Dethklok’s humorous themes and oftentimes borderline absurd visuals didn’t diminish the fact that at its core, they are still a death metal band. Dethklok’s large LED screen of visuals from the long-running cartoon series Metalocalypse (which the band originated from) was the focal point as the group remained still in silhouetted lighting for most of the set. The striking animated images were a total 180 from the production that Babymetal showcased.

Babymetal’s elaborate costumes and choreography were prominent from the get-go. Despite the J-pop influence, metal heads were more than eager to crowd surf and head bang. The Japanese group’s theatricality didn’t overshadow Babymetal’s immense talent. From the backing musicians’ complex musicianship to the three main vocalists endless vocal stamina, Babymetal proved they’re more than just a gimmick.

If there’s one main takeaway from the night, it is that more varied lineups should be embraced in metal- and they should be a damn fun time.