After a decade of keeping the old-school heavy metal flame alive, Burning Witches return with their sixth studio record Inquisition — and it’s easily one of their darkest, heaviest, and most ambitious chapters so far.
From the very start, the record throws you into a shadowy atmosphere. The intro feels ritualistic, almost cinematic, before the band slams into full gear with sharp riffs, pounding drums, and Laura Guldemond’s powerhouse vocals. There’s no doubt: this is classic heavy metal delivered with modern fire.
The album balances pure speed and aggression with dramatic, melodic passages. Tracks like “Soul Eater” and “In for the Kill” bring thrash-level intensity, while songs such as “Shame” and “High Priestess of the Night” lean into that big, mid-tempo groove that’s built for fists in the air. Then there’s “Release Me” — a moody ballad that shows a softer, emotional side without losing the band’s signature bite.
Guitarists Romana Kalkuhl and Courtney Cox trade searing leads and harmonies throughout, clearly tipping the hat to Maiden and Priest while putting their own stamp on the sound. The production is dense and heavy, but never flat — there’s space for layered choirs, atmospheric touches, and enough crunch to shake a live crowd.
What makes Inquisition stand out is how complete it feels as an album. It doesn’t just throw out a handful of bangers; it flows with purpose, building from dark, menacing intros to epic, fist-pumping finales. The closer ties everything together with a haunting, almost theatrical edge that lingers long after the last note.
Burning Witches aren’t here to reinvent the wheel — they’re here to roll over you with it. And with Inquisition, they’ve crafted a record that’s equal parts celebration of heavy metal tradition and proof that the fire burns just as bright today.
A fierce, confident release that delivers hooks, heaviness, and atmosphere in equal measure. Old-school at heart, but played with the kind of intensity that makes it feel fresh.
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