The Children of Bodom site also posted a statement honoring Laiho, which read: “One of the most renowned guitarists in the world, Alexi Laiho, has passed away. The musician, most notably known as the front man of Children of Bodom, died in his home in Helsinki, Finland, last week. Laiho had suffered from long-term health issues during his last years. More than 25 years of friendship. We lost a brother. The world lost a phenomenal song writer and one of the greatest guitarists of all time. Memories and Alexi’s music will live forever. Our thoughts are with Alexi’s family during this difficult time.”
Laiho formed the death metal band Children of Bodom in 1993 with childhood friend drummer Jaska Raatikainen, taking their name from one of the most infamous unsolved murder cases in the country’s history, the 1960 slaying of two teenagers at Bodom Lake. Over more than twenty years, the group release 10 studio albums featuring their signature mix of death, thrash and melodic metal, which often incorporated symphonic and neoclassical touches into its hammering mix. After the band split in 2019 Laiho and rhythm guitarist Daniel Freyberg founded Bodom After Midnight, who recorded three songs and one video, which will be released posthumously, according to a post from the band’s management.
“We are crushed by the sudden passing of our dear friend and band member. Words cannot describe this shock and the profound sadness that we feel”, said Bodom After Midnight bandmates Freyberg, Mitja Toivonen and Waltteri Väyrynen in a statement. Laiho’s sister, also paid tribute in the same statement, saying, “We are all absolutely shocked and devastated. We ask for privacy and understanding during these hard times. My little brother’s funeral will take place privately.”
“Alexi was the most loving and magnificent husband and father. Our hearts are eternally broken,” wife Kelli Wright-Laiho added.
Check out the statement, some tributes to Laiho and performance footage below.
