Bodom After Midnight’s EP Paint the Sky with Blood was released April 23, 2021 and as expected has a classic Children of Bodom vibe. The last piece of Alexi’s music history lies here, a colossal end to a whirlwind career that will be a huge part of music for years to come. Alexi’s signature flair shines through as it always does, Gods never die and that is why Alexi will be around forever – he will always be one of the guitar greats.
Although Paint the Sky with Blood’s drumming and keyboards are noticeably different styles to any avid fan, it has the upbeat punchiness of Blooddrunk and notorious Alexi vocals. Drumming for BAM is Paradise Lost’s Waltteri Vayrnen, live keyboardist is Vili Itapelto and bassist is ex-Santa Cruz’s Mitja Toivonen. Daniel Freyberg, the newest COB member joined Alexi once more on guitar for BAM. The guitar style is still slightly different however, bringing a modern era of Children of Bodom as Bodom After Midnight and proving the guys still had heaps to give. Unfortunately this will be the only taste with Alexi gone too soon.
Payback’s a Bitch has the same early COB feel, but it’s similar to listening to Norther – distinct COB elements, yet definitely not COB. Payback’s a Bitch may be the top Melodic Death Metal release for 2021 with everything you’d want and hope for from the band.
The third and final track on Bodom After Midnight’s debut EP is a cover of Dissection’s “Where Dead Angels Lie”. Another classic COB move, covers have always been part of Children of Bodom’s discography and as Alexi’s last cover this homage to Dissection is magnificently moving.
If you haven’t already, listen now! This final release is a must have for any fan and a sacred piece of music to go down in history as a guitar god’s last chords.
TRACKLIST
Paint The Sky With Blood
Payback’s A Bitch
Where Dead Angels Lie (Dissection Cover)
