On April 23, 2021, melodic death metal pillar BODOM AFTER MIDNIGHT will release their new EP, Paint The Sky With Blood, via Napalm Records. Paint The Sky With Blood was recorded in Finland back in 2020 and was meant to be the beginning of an exciting new chapter that sadly ended far too soon. The three-track offering is an impressive, overwhelming sonic tribute to an absolute legend of the metal scene – matchless late guitarist/vocalist Alexi Laiho – and at the same time, a modern homage to the genre itself. A storm of raging guitars and blaring drums merge with Laiho’s versatile vocal power, leading into a heavy attack – title track “Paint The Sky With Blood†– opening the 14 minute EP. The track 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. With Paint The Sky With Blood, BODOM AFTER MIDNIGHT hold the sceptre of metal in their hands, bestowing an impressive fragment of their inimitable legacy.
