Well, Halloween is cancelled. October is officially ruined.

Okay, let’s calm down and try reporting some news.

As if Floor Jansen leaving Nightwish and Diana Leah parting ways with Delain weren’t enough for one month, October has delivered another painful surprise for metal fans. This time, it’s Laura Guldemond, who has announced her departure from Swiss heavy metal band Burning Witches after seven years as their lead vocalist.

Guldemond joined Burning Witches in June 2019, replacing original vocalist Seraina Telli, and made her live debut at Sweden Rock Festival that same month. Her first release with the band was the single “Wings of Steel,” followed by four studio albums: Dance with the Devil (2020), The Witch of the North (2021), The Dark Tower (2023), and Inquisition (2025). During those seven years, she became the voice behind some of the band’s most recognizable songs and helped carry Burning Witches through an important period in their career, including major festival appearances, international tours, and their move from Nuclear Blast to Napalm Records.

In their announcement, Burning Witches explained that they had discussed the situation extensively and tried to find a way to continue together, but ultimately had to accept Laura’s decision. The band thanked her for the albums, concerts, and memories they had shared, emphasizing that her contribution would always be part of their history. They also reassured fans that all announced shows would go ahead as planned. Jennifer Gruber, vocalist of Fireborn, will step in for their performances toward the end of the year, while auditions are already underway to find a permanent replacement.

Laura also shared a personal statement, expressing pride in everything the band accomplished during her time with them, particularly the four albums they recorded together. She explained that the decision came after seven incredible years and asked fans to respect everyone involved. Addressing the circumstances of her departure, she wrote, “There are no hard feelings—sometimes it’s simply time for a change when visions no longer fully align.” She also confirmed that she intends to focus on her own music and whatever other creative opportunities come her way, making it clear that this is far from the end of her musical career.

Burning Witches, meanwhile, remain determined to continue, declaring, “BUT THE FIRE IS STILL BURNING – AND THE WITCHES WILL KEEP FLYING HIGH!” With a new vocalist search underway and their upcoming concerts still on the calendar, the band is preparing for another chapter in its history, even if saying goodbye to Laura marks the end of an era for the fans who have followed them since 2019.