Death-metal band Children of Bodom are always on the periphery of wider recognition by the guitar-focussed masses, thanks mostly to their firecracker-wonderkid Alexi Laiho who also does lead vocals. Laihos style is reminiscent of the old hair-waving pedestal-topping solos of the 80s, although he effortlessly throws in more modern metal advances to immensely spice up his compositions. This years Halo of Blood turned out to be one of the bands best, and although the grittily-screamed vocals continue to dissuade many from fully engaging with their music, the guitarwork on the likes of Scream for Silence and the title track are reason enough to give them your best.