Members of Children Of Bodom performed the first of two special tribute concerts earlier tonight (Thursday, February 26) at Tavastia club in Helsinki, Finland.
Dubbed Children Of Bodom – A Celebration Of Music, the event brought together original bassist Henkka Seppälä, keyboardist Janne Wirman, drummer Jaska Raatikainen and early-era guitarist Alexander Kuoppala.
They were joined by longtime friend Samy Elbanna of Lost Society, who stepped in to honor late guitarist/vocalist and primary songwriter Alexi Laiho.
The shows were announced last October with the band stating, "We want to celebrate the life's work of our band and at the same time the musical legacy of our friend and bandmate Alexi." Tavastia holds historic importance for the band, having hosted key performances throughout their career.
The setlist spanned the group's catalog, delivering a 20-song retrospective.
Fan-filmed footage from the concert has already surfaced online, capturing an emotional evening that paid tribute not only to Laiho's virtuosity but also to the enduring legacy of one of Finland's most influential metal exports.
The second and final Children Of Bodom – A Celebration Of Music performance is set to take place at Tavastia as well.