General Information
Personnel:
Laura Guldemond – vocals
Romana Kalkuhl – guitars, songwriting
Courtney Cox – guitars
Jeanine Grob – bass
Lala Frischknecht – drums
Producers: Damir Eskic, V.O. Pulver, Romana Kalkuhl
Label: Napalm Records
Release date: August 22, 2025
Setting the Scene
Power metal band Burning Witches return with their sixth studio album Inquisition, released August 22, 2025 via Napalm Records. Packed with 12 new tracks, the record dives into themes of medieval persecution and religious oppression while delivering the band’s trademark mix of classic and modern heavy metal.
First Impression
Inquisition feels like the lovechild of Iron Maiden’s classic metal spirit and the soaring power of Helloween, delivering heavy riffs, blazing solos, and an energy that begs to be played live. From the start, Burning Witches set the tone for a fierce and cohesive ride.
Similar Sounds
If you’re into any of these artists, this album should be on your radar.
Visual Vibes
Track on Repeat
Stand Out Lyric
Are you the hunter or are you a prey
Butchered beneath your masquerade
Take a look, look into the mirror
Mirror, mirror, tell me what you see
Stop and look, look into the mirror
Mirror, mirror, do you dare to just be?
Just be
– “Mirror, Mirror”
The pre-chorus and chorus of “Mirror, Mirror” is a strong invitation to look at yourself and be true to who you really are.
In-depth Notes
Musical Shape 🎸
Musically, Inquisition is a masterclass in heavy metal, with riffs that hit hard and solos that soar. Romana Kalkuhl’s genius guitar work, already iconic, now paired with Courtney Cox, reaches legendary levels, delivering scorching riffs, intricate harmonies, and moments of shredding across tracks like “Soul Eater,” “Shame,” and “In For the Kill.” The drums drive each song with precision and power, while tempo shifts and dynamic arrangements keep the album engaging from start to finish. From the epic build-ups in the title track to the relentless energy of “In For the Kill,” the album flows with intensity and highlights the band’s musical prowess.
Vocal Performance 🎤
Laura’s vocal performance on Inquisition is commanding and electrifying. It feels as if her throat was architectured for heavy metal, effortlessly moving between soaring melodies, gritty shouts, and dramatic phrasing. From the anthemic power of “Soul Eater” to the emotional weight of “Release Me,” her delivery makes every song feel larger than life.
Production Quality 🎧
Flawless in its execution, from the flow and sequencing of the tracks, to the interplay between guitars, drums, and vocals, to the careful use of pauses and dynamics, every element works together to bring the album’s intensity and emotion to life.
Themes and Concepts 💭
The album explores themes of medieval persecution and religious oppression, with the music reflecting their intensity through dramatic riffs, powerful rhythms, and soaring guitar work, as heard in tracks like “Shame,” where the instrumentation amplifies the song’s dark and relentless concept.
Final Verdict
This album takes Burning Witches from being considered a great band to being recognized as one of the defining names of modern metal, the kind people will still talk about decades from now.
Mood Meter
%
Intensity
%
Melancholy
%
Darkness
%
Joyfulness
%
Serenity
%
Energy
Perfect For…
Work out |
Long hours driving |
Deep thinking |
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Will I play it again?
Yes, now and probably years later!
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