Published: April 23, 2026 · 2:37 PM EDT
The debut release from Marta Gabriel’s new band introduces a speed metal direction rooted in classic influences
LEATHERWITCH have released their debut single “Beast Inside” and announced their first studio album “First Spell”, set for release on May 29, 2026 via Listenable Records.
The project marks a new chapter for Marta Gabriel, following her work with Crystal Viper, as previously reported by Rockum in Crystal Viper's Marta Gabriel Returns with Leatherwitch, A New Speed Metal Project.
“Beast Inside” introduces the band’s direction through fast-paced rhythms, classic speed metal riffing, and melodic vocal lines.
The track is built around a traditional gothic horror theme, centered on a werewolf narrative, and reflects the band’s focus on combining classic heavy metal storytelling with high-energy instrumentation.
The single is also available as a 7” splatter vinyl release, featuring:
Side A: Beast Inside
Side B: Bound By The Night
“First Spell” is the debut album from LEATHERWITCH, presenting a collection of songs rooted in speed metal and traditional heavy metal structures.
The record emphasizes riff-driven compositions, guitar solos, and a raw production approach while maintaining clarity across each track.
TRACKLIST — “FIRST SPELL”
Heroes And The Dice
Beast Inside
Bound By The Night
Silver Stallions
Living In The Fast Lane
The New Beginning
Two Tons Of Steel
In The Middle Of The Night
BONUS TRACKS
Walls Of Jericho / Ride The Sky (Helloween cover) — CD only
Black Wind, Fire And Steel (Manowar cover) — Vinyl only
FORMATS
Limited Edition Blue/Black Vinyl (with bonus track)
Limited Edition O-Card CD (with bonus track)
Digital
Bundles include additional items such as postcard, poster, and coaster.
Marta Gabriel performs vocals, guitar, bass, and drums on the album, with a guest guitar solo by Giuseppe Taormina.
The material highlights a more direct and aggressive approach compared to her previous work.
Following the end of Crystal Viper, Marta Gabriel initiated LEATHERWITCH as a new project focused on speed metal and classic heavy metal influences.
In addition to her band work, she has collaborated with acts such as:
Vader
Manilla Road
Metalucifer
LINEUP
Marta Gabriel — Vocals, Guitar, Bass, Drums
Special Guest:
Giuseppe Taormina — Guitar Solo
With “Beast Inside,” LEATHERWITCH introduce their debut album “First Spell”, outlining the project’s direction through speed metal structures and classic heavy metal themes.
Written by Gino Alache – Music Journalist
Photo Credit: Bart Gabriel
Watch “Beast Inside” below:
