Norwegian black metal band Witch Club Satan have announced that drummer Johanna will be stepping away from the group, with her final performance scheduled for October 30 at Rockefeller in Oslo, Norway.
The band shared the news on social media, expressing support for their bandmate’s decision and posting a statement from Johanna explaining her departure.
“It’s with heavy hearts, and the most love and respect, that we let Johanna fly off to another journey,” the group wrote.
In her statement, Johanna reflected on the band’s approach to performance and the emotional demands of the project, explaining that she initially joined because she believed in using aggression as a form of creative expression.
However, she said the experience gradually became difficult for her personally.
“But over time, it feels as if I allowed myself to be swallowed by the darkness,” Johanna explained. “The pressure for me personally, became too heavy to bear.”
Despite her decision to leave, Johanna spoke positively about Witch Club Satan and its original purpose as a creative space where musicians could challenge themselves and explore new forms of expression.
She added that she wants to step away to rediscover her enjoyment of making art.
“I do no longer feel that freedom, so I am taking a step back to rediscover the joy of why I create,” she stated.
Johanna’s final performance alongside Victoria and Nikoline will take place Friday, October 30, at Rockefeller in Oslo. The band also encouraged fans hoping to see the original lineup to attend its October 28 show in Bodø.
Witch Club Satan have not announced a replacement drummer or provided details about their future lineup.
