Today was meant to celebrate a vigorous manifestation of a brand new metal era and now pays tribute to an incomparable guitarist, artist and visionary of his time. Today, BODOM AFTER MIDNIGHT releases their highly-anticipated three-track EP, Paint the Sky with Blood, via Napalm Records.
The EP that was recorded back in Finland, was intended to be followed by a full-length album later in the year — now embodies a whole new meaning and remains as the only work by BODOM AFTER MIDNIGHT. Paint the Sky with Blood is undeniable evidence of the late Alexi Laiho‘s artistic spirit and his extraordinary musical skills in synthesis with his absolutely talented bandmates Daniel Freyberg, Waltteri Väyrynen, Mitja Toivonen and live keyboardist Vili Itäpelto. Not only do the band’s final recordings see the light today, but the matching visualizer for “Payback’s A Bitch” is also out now via Napalm Records.
The band comments: “Like ourselves, Alexi was beyond stoked about these songs and anxious to get these out, so we are happy that we can fulfill his wish. Needless to say, we are honored and proud to be a part of his very last creative work and to unleash it the way he wanted it. It’s time to let the beast out of the cage one more time as a celebration of Alexi’s music, legacy and the man himself.”
Heavy title track “Paint the Sky with Blood” sets the stage for the 14-minute EP of the same name, and is strikingly reminiscent of early-CHILDREN OF BODOM elements while also adding exciting modern influences into the fold. Second stunner “Payback’s A Bitch” and its massive riffing are on a quest for retribution, delivering a hard-hitting, second to none offense. The interplay of Alexi Laiho, guitarist Daniel Freyberg, drummer Waltteri Väyrynen (PARADISE LOST), bassist Mitja Toivonen (ex-SANTA CRUZ) and live keyboardist Vili Itäpelto is not only a testament to the band’s extraordinary musical ability, but also showcases their skill in deftly incorporating a variety of genre influences.
Closing cover track “Where Dead Angels Lie” is an absolute triumph — originally performed by Swedish extreme metal formation DISSECTION, the track shines as a timeless classic with a new edge. Eerie riffs and vocals alternating between menacing murmurs and characteristic guttural, distorted vocals stay faithful to the original while branding this version with an undeniable BODOM AFTER MIDNIGHT punch.
Paint The Sky With Blood track listing:
01. Paint The Sky With Blood
02. Payback’s A Bitch
03. Where Dead Angels Lie (DISSECTION Cover)
You can get the album here.
