Swiss heavy metal outfit Burning Witches have released their sixth studio album, Inquisition, on August 22, 2025 via Napalm Records. Diving into themes of medieval persecution, religious oppression, and resilience, the follow-up to 2023’s The Dark Tower, marks a bold new chapter for the band. Metal Insider caught up with bassist Jay Grob to learn more about the record.
What inspired the darker direction on Inquisition compared to your previous records?
We like history, and the Inquisition is part of humanity’s past. It’s a real story, and it’s cool that we can reflect that in our songs and lyrics a bit more, especially since it also fits with witches… I think the musical direction also comes from touring with other bands. When you tour with different bands, it certainly influences your composing.
What was the most challenging song to write or record on Inquisition, and why?
If any of the songs, maybe Inquisition because of all the different parts. For us it’s not really challenging though. We go into the studio to record but have the freedom to change parts if we need, or if we have new ideas we can try them. For us it’s interesting and fun.
“Mirror, Mirror” and “Malus Maga” close out the album with a lot of energy, how intentional was the tracklist’s pacing?
Yes it was intentional, because we want the album to convey the power and energy we have onstage and want the listener to feel that throughout the album…
Also, for example, if you put all the slower songs at the end of the album, it takes away from the momentum. We always try to create a good, interesting mix with the order of our songs for each album. Same with our live setlist.
Were there any specific books, films, or historical events that influenced the lyrical concepts?
Laura writes the lyrics and is very into fantasy books and series about history and Witches. I know in the song Shame, the chorus is inspired by the walk of shame in Game Of Thrones. That was also a punishment dealt out by the religious institution in this fantasy series.
Do you have a personal favorite track from the album?
Honestly, I love all the songs!! They are all full of power. I love it when Romana writes new songs, they’re never boring or dull… but if I have to choose, then High Priestess of the Night, Inquisition and Release Me…
How disappointing was it to postpone your U.S. tour so close to the planned dates?
We all feel really sad that we can‘t go on the US Tour this year. We love coming to America and we have seen for many months online that our fans were also looking forward us returning. The tour is Postponed to next year in March/April. Our team is working day and night to make everything possible… maybe we can even add some dates as well.
When did you first realize visa delays might impact your touring plans?
1 1/2 months before we postponed the tour, we still hadn’t heard anything from the US embassy and we had applied months before that. We have toured three times in the US, and so we thought we could make it happen. Two years ago it started to be tight on time, we got a late answer, but were able to make it in time for the tour. Unfortunately there is nothing we can do, we are still waiting for an answer. We feel really sorry for that and we’re trying to do everything we can to make the US tour possible next year!
Do you feel artists outside the U.S. are facing more hurdles now when trying to tour here?
Currently yes, it is more difficult than in the past. However, there’s always challenges and “hurdles” when traveling as a band… with new policies in place it’s always difficult to anticipate how difficult the process will be. We look forward to being back on tour in the USA!
Has the visa situation influenced how you’ll approach future international touring?
No, not at this point. If adjustments need to be made, of course we will adapt. No mater what, we will continue to do our best to make sure we can still bring our show of metal witches all over the world!
You’re now six albums in, what do you feel Inquisition represents in your evolution as a band?
Yes, we’re very excited about the 6th album release! I feel Inquisition represents our growth as women in metal, highlighting our passion and pure instinct for heavy metal! It also represents our gratitude and appreciation for the metal fans and supporters all over the world. This is a celebration for everyone!
If you could cast one fictional witch to join your band for a day, who would it be and why?
I would like to have Sabrina from “Sabrina the Teenage Witch”, the 1996‘s series, because she is not a stereotypical witch. She has a very good sense of humor and she would be a good fit with us. It would be great to have her hangout for a day! I also like her magic because she’s kind and always tries to help other people! Also, because she is still learning the magic and as a result there are funny mistakes that she has to fix. She was always confronting her challenges with positive energy and a good sense of humor. She would totally be welcome to bring her speaking cat, Salem.
Is there anything else you want to say or add about the new album?
Yes, the new album “Inquisition” is available everywhere on August 22nd! I would like to thank you for your time and support! To all the fans around the world, I hope to see you all soon… we are Ready To Fight!
The new Burning Witches album, Inquisition, is out now via Napalm Records. Order here.
