A name. A brief moment of silence in my mind. Then the thought: That can’t be true. CHILDREN OF BODOM at Reload. In this lineup, they’re basically history. And that’s exactly why this performance isn’t just another highlight—it’s a rare event.

When we talk about melodic death metal, there’s no getting around CHILDREN OF BODOM. This band wasn’t just part of the scene—it was the benchmark, the driving force, and the standard all at once. From 1993 to 2019, the Finns shaped a sound that entire generations are still grappling with today: breakneck speed, razor-sharp melodies, technical prowess on a level all its own—and yet always instantly recognizable from the very first second.

At the center of it all was Alexi Laiho: frontman, songwriter, and exceptional guitarist. Many consider him one of the greatest guitarists of all time—not just because of his speed, but because of his distinctive style. Those lead riffs, those harmonies, that effortless way he turned pure virtuosity into real songs. Alexi Laiho’s passing in 2020 left a void that cannot be filled. We can only honor his memory.

That’s exactly what these few special shows are all about: “Children Of Bodom – A Celebration Of Music.” Four of the five original members are reuniting on stage for this event. Joining them is Samy Elbanna, frontman of Lost Society and a close friend of Alexi Laiho. This isn’t a comeback, nor is it a fresh start under the old name. It’s a tribute. A moment that’s all about the legacy—and the songs that shaped us.