The Children Have It
Absolutely everyone who went to Bloodstock 2004 will tell you that Children of Bodom stole the show. Their stage presence and sound were perfect throughout. Sadly, this was not the same story this time around.
Now, Alexi Laiho's stage presence has always been perfect. Never content to stand still, never content to miss a line or play a sloppy solo. Thankfully, he's not been resting on his laurels and the showmanship was as explosive as it always is. The rest of the band were much more active. Sadly, unlike last year, the sound was far, far too quiet. The front four rows last year could not hear anything other than the band, but this year conversations were held at normal volume and everyone could hear them. The PA system of the stage had been having problems all weekend, and even with their own unique system, Children of Bodom simply couldn't provide the level of sound needed to fill the air.
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However, what sound they did produce was excellent as usual. Boasting a new track list, including a surprise in 'Knuckleduster' from the latest EP 'Trashed, Lost and Strungout'; the set was a brilliant blend of new and old, with 'Hate Me!' from 'Follow The Reaper' being the highlights of the set.
Strangely, due to running times being pushed forward, the set was rather short, and the encore only consisted of 'Downfall', instead of the usual three-song fare. Also sorely missed was the trademark 'War of Razors' - a duel between Alexi Laiho and keyboard player Janne Warman. Indeed, the solos played were all taken straight from the albums, very little variation was involved. It felt as if the band were on autopilot for the majority of the solos, and this is a sad thing, as it's often the complexity and innovation of a Children of Bodom set that makes them worth seeing.
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But overall, there is no denying that once again Children of Bodom got the best response from the crowd. Due to the PA system it was easier to hear the crowd singing along than Alexi himself, but this didn't stop excellent songs like 'Kissing the Shadows', 'Needled 24/7' and the live favourite 'Angels Don't Kill' from blowing everyone away.
To view all photos taken during this set click here. There are 26 available.