It’s another rainy night in Sydney, and inside the Manning Bar, the crowd is thick with denim, studs and anticipation. There’s a quiet buzz—equal parts curiosity and reverence—for the arrival of Swiss metal band Burning Witches, a five-piece who’ve built a global following on their throwback blend of classic heavy and power metal.
Opening for Burning Witches tonight are Temtris, a Sydney-based heavy metal outfit with deep roots stretching back to the South Coast of New South Wales. Fronted by Genevieve Rodda, whose voice is as fierce as it is commanding tonight they power through a thunderous set that feels like a mission statement.
Burning Witches were formed by rhythm guitarist Romana Kalkuhl, the band take the stage with a confident, well-rehearsed energy. Jeanine Grob’s bass lines thunder beneath the surface, while Lala Frischknecht keeps time with brisk, purposeful drumming. Courtney Cox, the group’s latest addition on lead guitar, carves out sharp, melodic solos with finesse. But it’s Laura Guldemond who holds the centre—her voice alternates between piercing high notes and gritty growls, grounded in the theatricality of 80s metal but delivered with modern urgency.
The band’s influences—Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Alice Cooper—are clear and there’s a commitment to craft here: the twin guitar harmonies are tight, the vocals controlled but raw, and the set flows without excess. For all their heavy riffs and occult aesthetics, there’s something refreshingly straightforward about Burning Witches. It’s loud, fast, and deeply rooted in metal history—but it’s also five musicians doing what they love, on their own terms.
For a closer look at the night, check out our photo gallery below to see how it all played out.
Burning Witches move to Brisbane and Melbourne next. Tickets HERE.
Images Deb Pelser
