How a Finnish Metal Band Found Their Name in a Local Phone Book
In short: Formed in 1993 as Inearthed, this melodic death metal group eventually rebranded after a lake associated with a notorious unsolved mystery. Their journey from local demos to global stages defined a generation of Finnish heavy metal, marked by technical precision, relentless touring, and a tragic, premature end for their frontman.
The band began as Inearthed, a project founded by guitarist Alexi Laiho and drummer Jaska Raatikainen. After struggling to secure a record deal with their early demos, they were forced to change their name to sign with Spinefarm Records. While browsing a local phone book, they discovered Lake Bodom, the site of a famous unsolved murder case. They compiled a list of variations and ultimately settled on Children of Bodom.
Their debut, Something Wild, released in 1997, served as their breakthrough. Laiho, who drew inspiration from Yngwie Malmsteen, pushed for a highly technical sound that distinguished the group. By the early 2000s, the band achieved significant commercial success in Finland, with albums like Follow the Reaper and Hate Crew Deathroll earning gold and platinum certifications. Their reach extended globally, with multiple entries on the United States Billboard 200.
The band's trajectory was marked by both professional highs and physical setbacks. Laiho, named the world's best guitarist by Metal Hammer in 2006, suffered several injuries that disrupted their touring schedules, including a broken shoulder in 2007 and a fall from a tour bus in 2009. Despite these challenges, they remained a powerhouse until their final concert in Helsinki in 2019. Following Laiho's death in 2020, the remaining members announced a reunion in 2026 to honor his legacy and prepare for the 2027 milestone marking three decades since their first record.
Beyond their studio output, the band was known for their eclectic cover songs, ranging from Britney Spears to Iron Maiden, and their high-energy live performances. Their legacy remains deeply tied to the Finnish metal scene, having sold over 250,000 records within their home country alone. The upcoming tribute shows and planned anniversary celebrations reflect their enduring impact on the genre.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Children of Bodom
- Also: Wikidata — Children of Bodom · CC0
- Also: Wikidata — Children of Bodom · CC0
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