Keeping with tradition, infamous Bodom tragedy lives on

By: Ian Grogan

Posted: 5/16/08

On any of their albums, from track one until the end, Children of Bodom constantly throw you into a world of heavy riffs, powerful vocals and even the Reaper himself - and "Blooddrunk" is no exception.

"Blooddrunk" is the band's sixth studio album and they still haven't lost their touch. However, since their last album, "Are You Dead Yet?" Children of Bodom have continued to turn to a new sound, which hasn't stopped the reign of this Finnish band.

The band's name comes from a multiple homicide that occurred in Lake Bodom, Finland, in 1960. A group of campers were attacked in the middle of night by an unknown assailant. Three of the four were killed, and the sole survivor was seen as a suspect in 2004 until found innocent in 2005. The survivor explained to police that the murderer had glowing red eyes and was mysterious, so a myth came about that it was, of course, the Reaper. It is from this story that Children of Bodom have derived the band's name and even much of their songs ("Red Light in My Eyes," "Silent Night, Bodom Night" and "Follow the Reaper."

Children of Bodom haven't stopped their Lake Bodom-themed songs in the new album - songs like "LoBodomy" and "Smile Pretty for the Devil" still account for the mysterious murders - yet this album sadly has no mentions of the Reaper, which, to a fan, is rather disappointing.

"Blooddrunk," however, is a great album whether you are a fan or not, and Children of Bodom continue to surprise their audience with amazing sounds. From Alexi Laiho's face-melting solos to suprising keyboards by Janne Wirman, the band has yet to fail me. Every album adds something new to their sound, and I am impressed more and more with every album.

"Blooddrunk" is no exception. Every song has individual greatness that adds to the album as a whole. But if I had to recommend a few songs, they would have to be "Hellhounds on my Trail," Tie my Rope" and "LoBodomy." If you are new to the band, try not starting with "Banned from Heaven," because it is a rather slow song and doesn't accurately portray the band.

Children of Bodom can be seen on the "Gigantour" with Megadeth, In Flames, Mastadon, Job for a Cowboy and High on Fire tomorrow night at the Salem Armory. Tickets are still on sale via the tour's website.

Children of Bodom have a distinct sound that leaves you breathless as you listen to their music for hours. Every album has some new twist to it, and almost every song has a story behind it, which only makes the band's music that much more interesting.

Children of Bodom

Blooddrunk

Rating: B

Check out: "Tie My Rope" and "LoBodomy"

Skip: "Banned from Heaven"

Ian Grogan

diversions@dailybarometer.com