BURNING WITCHES – Inquisition

Since their fiery emergence in 2015, Burning Witches have stood tall as one of Europe’s most exciting all-female heavy metal acts. Founded by guitarist Romana Kalkuhl, the Swiss quintet quickly earned acclaim with their self-titled debut and subsequent albums like Hexenhammer and Dance With the Devil, which showcased their razor-sharp riffs and devotion to classic heavy metal. The lineup has shifted over the years, with powerhouse vocalist Laura Guldemond taking over the mic in 2019 and, most recently, American shredder Courtney Cox (ex–The Iron Maidens) stepping in on guitar. With five successful records already under their belts and a reputation for high-energy live shows, Burning Witches now deliver their sixth studio effort, Inquisition—an album steeped in themes of medieval persecution, religious oppression, and rebellion against tyranny.

Production Notes

Inquisition finds Burning Witches teaming once again with V.O. Pulver (Little Creek Studio, Destruction, Pro-Pain) alongside Damir Eskic of Destruction. Together, they’ve crafted a sound that is both massive and detailed: thick guitar tones, thunderous rhythm sections, and an almost cinematic atmosphere when the songs demand it. The opener, “Sanguini Hominum,” makes its presence felt with Latin chants and ominous guitar melodies, setting the dark, medieval tone of the record. Tracks like “Soul Eater” and “Inquisition” hit fast and hard, blending thrash-inspired speed with power metal flair, while “High Priestess of the Night” struts in with an 80s swagger that feels destined for the live stage. “Release Me” provides a surprising yet welcome shift in tempo—a melodic ballad carried by Laura Guldemond’s soaring vocal delivery and lush harmonies. Across the album, the dual-guitar interplay between Romana and Courtney Cox is a highlight, with tight harmonies and nimble solos that recall the best of Judas Priest and Iron Maiden while still carrying the band’s unique fire. Sonically, the record is crisp and muscular, though it doesn’t quite land that one instantly iconic anthem the band has delivered in the past with “Dance With the Devil.”

Final Notes

With Inquisition, Burning Witches prove once again why they’ve become one of the most reliable names in modern heavy metal. The riffs are heavy, the hooks are strong, and the production is pristine. Laura Guldemond continues to command with her versatile and powerful voice, while Courtney Cox fits seamlessly into the fold, adding both precision and flair. While the album may lack a breakout single to rival their past highlights, it’s a consistently strong listen that balances heaviness with melody, speed with atmosphere, and classic influences with modern energy. For fans of Judas Priest, Doro, and Warlock, Inquisition is a record worth adding to the collection.

Lineup

• Jeanine Grob – Bass
• Lala Frischknecht – Drums
• Romana Kalkuhl – Guitars
• Laura Guldemond – Vocals
• Courtney Cox – Guitars

Inquisition – Tracklist

1. Sanguini Hominum
2. Soul Eater
3. Shame
4. The Spell of the Skull
5. Inquisition
6. High Priestess of the Night
7. Burn in Hell
8. Release Me
9. In for the Kill
10. In the Eye of the Storm
11. Mirror, Mirror
12. Malus Maga

Check out the official video for “Inquisition” by the Burning Witches off of their new album: Inquisition