Following two sold-out tribute concerts at Helsinki's Tavastia club in February 2026, CHILDREN OF BODOM keyboardist JANNE WIRMAN has confirmed that the "Celebration of Music" series will continue in 2027. The Finnish melodic death metal legends may no longer be active, but their music lives on through these emotional special events.
Wirman spoke about the February shows with unmistakable pride: "Something truly magical happened in terms also of how tight the band was." When asked whether the series would return next year, he was unequivocal: "Yes, there is. I mean, we said that next year the celebration is gonna continue, so it's gonna continue."
The February reunion featured CHILDREN OF BODOM original members HENKKA SEPPÄLÄ (bass), JANNE WIRMAN (keyboards), and JASKA RAATIKAINEN (drums), alongside early guitarist ALEXANDER KUOPPALA and LOST SOCIETY frontman SAMY ELBANNA on vocals and guitar. ELBANNA took on the near-impossible task of honoring the late ALEXI LAIHO — the beloved founder and driving force of CHILDREN OF BODOM who passed away on December 29, 2020, at just 41 years old, from alcohol-induced liver and pancreas complications.
Wirman was effusive in his praise of ELBANNA's preparation: "His performance was flawless. All the guitar solos, all the guitar leads were just perfect."
CHILDREN OF BODOM disbanded in December 2019 due to LAIHO's escalating health struggles. The Celebration of Music concerts serve as a heartfelt tribute to one of Finland's greatest metal exports, keeping the flame alive for the dedicated global fanbase that continues to mourn the extraordinary loss of ALEXI LAIHO. Specific 2027 dates and venues have yet to be announced.