Metal, Hardcore, Indie, Rock
A special concert honoring the music of legendary Finnish metal band Children Of Bodom took place on February 26 at the sold-out Tavastia Club in Helsinki. Titled Children Of Bodom – A Celebration of Music, the event marked the first of two consecutive tribute shows celebrating the life and legacy of late guitarist–vocalist Alexi Laiho.
The lineup featured original members Janne Warman, Henkka Blacksmith, Jaska Raatikainen, returning guitarist Alexander Kuoppala, and Lost Society frontman Samy Elbanna, a longtime friend of the band, stepping into Laiho’s iconic role.
The evening began with a beautifully crafted video tribute to Alexi Laiho. Tasteful and deeply moving, it gradually guided the audience into the emotional core of the night without resorting to excessive sentimentality. The atmosphere in the venue shifted into focused silence before erupting into cheers as the band finally took the stage.
While Tavastia audiences sometimes take time to warm up, this night was different. The crowd was fully engaged from the opening seconds and remained intensely energized throughout the entire show. Every riff, solo, and chorus was met with overwhelming enthusiasm, as if the audience knew they were witnessing something truly special.
Filling Alexi Laiho’s position is one of the most daunting tasks in metal, yet Samy Elbanna handled it with confidence and respect. Rather than attempting a direct imitation, he delivered the material with authenticity while honoring the spirit of the original performances.
No one can replace Alexi Laiho, but Elbanna proved to be the most fitting choice for these concerts arguably the only one capable of combining the technical skill, energy, and attitude required.
Another highlight of the evening was the return of guitarist Alexander Kuoppala to the band’s ranks. He performed his parts flawlessly, and it often looked as though he was experiencing pure joy playing Bodom songs live again alongside his former bandmates.
At moments, it felt like Kuoppala was reliving the early days of the band on stage — and the audience shared that emotion.
Throughout the show, the chemistry between the musicians was undeniable. Every member appeared to be genuinely enjoying the moment, making it clear that this was not a routine tribute performance but a heartfelt celebration of music that shaped an entire generation of metal fans.
The concert was an overwhelming success both musically and emotionally. It would be a real shame if this tribute remained limited to only two shows at Tavastia.
The lineup’s chemistry and the power of the performance deserve to be experienced beyond Finland as well. Alexi Laiho’s legacy is global, and this respectful yet electrifying tribute would resonate with audiences worldwide.
Thursday night at Tavastia proved that the music of Children Of Bodom is still very much alive and that one of Finland’s greatest metal musicians of all time Alexi Laiho and his music has not been forgotten.
Living Dead Beat
Sixpounder
Bodom Beach Terror
Silent Night, Bodom Night
Deadnight Warrior
Towards Deadend
Everytime I Die
Bodom After Midnight
Lake Bodom
Bed Of Razors
Needled 24/7
Angels Don’t Kill
Blooddrunk
Warheart
Follow The Reaper
Downfall
Are You Dead Yet?
Hate Me
Hate Crew Deathroll
In Your Face
