Finnish melodic death metal veterans Omnium Gatherum have long been recognized as one of the hardest-working bands in the scene, touring relentlessly year after year. Beyond the music itself, vocalist Jukka Pelkonen’s energy, openness, and genuine devotion to metal are major reasons fans keep coming back. Not long ago, Metal Insider spoke with Pelkonen about whether his definition of success had changed over the years. His answer was sincere and straightforward: not much has changed, as long as he can keep making music, touring, and doing what he loves, sharing it with people all over the globe. While Metal Insider was returning from 70000tons of Metal yesterday (2nd), we learned that Pelkonen has been diagnosed with lymphoma, which landed as an automatic gut punch.
Pelkonen has been with Omnium Gatherum since 2006 and has fronted the band since their third album, 2007’s Stuck Here on Snakes Way. His voice, presence, and passion have remained constant ever since. Seeing him forced to sit out the band’s upcoming European dates is heartbreaking, particularly as it coincides with Omnium Gatherum’s 30th anniversary celebrations. The band is set to begin their European run on February 11 in support of their 2025 album May The Bridges We Burn Light the Way, with Fallujah and In Mourning as special guests. Henry Hämäläinen of Shade Empire and Halysis will handle vocal duties for the tour. Our thoughts remain firmly with Pelkonen as he begins treatment, and we wish him strength, rest, and the very best care on the road to recovery. We also encourage fans to support the band during this time by attending the tour and checking out their official merchandise channels.
Yesterday (2nd), Jukka, Hämäläinen, and the band shared the following statement on social media:
“Hello friends
It is Jukka from OG. I have to inform you I won’t be able to participate on the upcoming European tour. This is because I have been diagnosed with Lymphoma. And now this serious situation requires my full attention.
But worry not. OG is a train which is not easily stopped. After a careful dialogue and concideration with my brothers in OG we decided to ask a talented individuall to join the tour. He is Henry Hämäläinen ( Shade Empire / Halysis ). An experienced singer and a frontman. We think he is more than suitable to headbang with OG on this tour.
Here is a greeting from Henry:
“Hi there OG family, Henry here! While I’m truly saddened by Jukka having to step away from this tour, I’m extremely honored to be called upon in the band’s time of need. The trust shown by the whole band – and especially Jukka himself – means a lot to me.”
As a silver lining, the tour is still happening in its entirety and we’ll make sure it’s going to be one hell of a ride! Even with this setback, the spirit of OG is strong, so see you all at the shows!””
Feature Image Photo Credit: Kyle Finlan
