Children Of Bodom
So let’s be honest, we all know I’m a bit of an ‘emo’ kid and can’t get enough of my hardcore and classic metal, but I’d never actually listened to the ‘death metal’ exploits of Children Of Bodom Before… yes, yes, shame on me. Needless to say, I did know it was going to be an interesting night.
Arriving early to the show for my interview, the queue outside Academy One was massive even a hour before the doors opened; as fans were eager to get the best spot possible before their musical heroes took to the stage.
Everyone seemed to be clad in ripped jeans and some from of black band t-shirt, whereas me, in my Topshop dress (black though) and red tights stuck out like a sore thumb, but then again, why the hell would I want to ‘blend in,’ you’re neve4r going to get anywhere that way are you?
So cider in had and earplugs firmly jammed into my ears, we began with the first band; Diablo, who, I must admit were pretty bloody good. In fact, so good that I even bought their album Icaros from the internet today.
Then it was time for the interestingly named Cannibal Corpse, an American Death metal Band who - I am informed - draw influence from horror fiction and horror films, thus making their lyrics and artwork are highly controversial, so much so, that at different times, several countries have banned Cannibal Corpse from performing within their borders, or have banned the sale and display of uncensored Cannibal Corpse albums. Wonderful.
Anyway, although the lyrics are actually to indecipherable to me and that they are a band that I probably wouldn’t rush into HMV and buy, I can’t fault them musically. Granted they’re not my type of band, but they are immense musicians, never faltering or pausing for breath; it’s just 30 minutes of incredible musical power as the band flings their hair all over the shop as they spend every song wind milling in time to the music. Pussycat Dolls choreographer… eat your heart out.
From the safety of the balcony I also got to witness my first ever ‘Wall Of Death’ which is surprising didn’t leave anyone actually dead. It was an amazing sight to watch, and it really brings home how metal fans are so united; always picking up anyone who falls over before pushing them into the throbbing pit.
As soon as they sloped off stage the fans immediately began chanting ’Bodom, Bodom’ despite the fact that they weren’t due on for another half a hour, but eventually it was time for the main event and after interviewing the rather delicious Henkka Seppälä prior to the show and finding him irritably charming, I was well up for seeing what they pulled out on stage.
Clearly the best was saved for last, as the band no only put on a sterling performance both musically and visually, the crowd seemed to lap it all up with vigour. A massive set was unveiled complete with elevated drum kit and a little place for Janne Wirman to perch himself upon whilst tinkering away at his keyboards.
From start to finish the band put absolutely everything they had into the show, running about the stage like madmen and giving the crowd their money’s worth when it comes to entertainment; I honestly can’t fault the show, it was ear-ripping madness that made a Monday evening involve something more than climbing in bed and pretending it’s still the weekend.
Well, that is unless you’re the guy that got knocked out in the pit who ended up with blood all over his face… in that case it sucks to be you!
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Keep your eyes peeled for our interview with the band coming later this week.
FemaleFirst - Ruth Harrison