Hello… Monsters?
February 28th at Prudential Center was host to Babymonster’s first stop on their North America tour- having sold out 100,000 tickets in Japan and two nights at Seoul Dome in Korea. I was super excited to see them live because I have been a big fan of everything they put out so far, and I really like seeing new groups so when I see them in subsequent years I can watch them improve!
Baby monster is a YG girl group that debuted in 2024 and consists of Ruka, Pharita, Asa, Ahyeon, Rami, Rora, and Chiquita. The oldest is around 23 and the youngest had JUST turned 16! I was expecting a loud back track, possibly some nerves… but that is not what we got. Amazed to see a full live band (something we need more in KPOP) and mics were ON. I to this day am still thinking about their raw vocal talent and how utterly speechless I was with how amazing their vocals sounded. Not only that but their dancing was top tier and the stage presence was insane! They acted like pros and easily outshone many other groups I’ve seen live.
The venue as usual remains a favorite: easy travel, lots of safe nearby parking, a FANTASTIC little bistro attached to the one parking lot with some great Italian food (shout out to Ella’s and their incredible wild mushroom ravioli) and ease of entry. Babymonster also had ample merch, fast lines and a GREAT selection of cute things (still mad I didn’t get their lightstick!) as well as a photo stand and even a skincare booth for a brand they endorse.
The stage setup was simple but I liked it, background images were well done. I really liked the VCRs, which took us through some of their predebut challenges and experiences. And to top it off they had some super cute outfits (although I think YG could work a little harder at keeping them more clothed considering their ages).
But what it comes down to is the music. Some of the girls had a hand in the lyrics for their first album and I must say it’s a no skip album- EVERY song is a bop and I love it! And to really drive it home they are EXCEPTIONAL live- so much so that I will consider going to one of the other stops they added on like Atlanta or Toronto just to see them again. They had the poise, grace and talent of Twice who sold out Metlife Stadium, although I think Babymonster will be able to do the same in no time flat! If you haven’t already, listen to the album and watch the videos. If you’re familiar with them (maybe even not convinced you’re a true fan) GO TO THE SHOW! It has only made me love them more and also really put into perspective how talented they are (not to throw shade but I saw Aespa a week or two before and they couldn’t hold a candle to Babymonster!)
