Introducing the band Smoke Witch and their excellent album Return of the Witch!
Jun 14, 2026
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4
min read
"Return of the Witch" is the latest EP from Australian stoner/doom metal band Smoke Witch. It was released on June 6, 2026, and features 7 songs that run nearly 37 minutes. The band is known for their hypnotic rhythms and massive, heavy riffs. This release features vocalist Ran Maclurkin, who lends his voice to several tracks and does a special "Deathmix" version of "Pagan Doll".
The release is available in several formats, and physical versions are very limited:
Digital and CD: You can stream or purchase on Smoke Witch Bandcamp and listen on Smoke Witch Spotify.
Vinyl: Two versions available: "Blood Moon" edition (limited to only 50 copies) and standard black vinyl (150 copies). Vinyl releases go on sale at the end of July.
Smoke Witch are an ever-evolving groove-doom force from Geelong, Australia — a grease-soaked, galactic riff machine driven by sheer low-end power and hypnotic groove. Built to deliver crushing heaviness with purpose, the band exists to rain thick, relentless riffs on audiences far and wide. Originally forged as a two-piece, Smoke Witch have expanded into a formidable four-piece, with Sammy Wright and Karl Stehn joined by Paul Duvall on bass, and most recently, Ran Maclurkin on vocals. The result is a fully realised doom behemoth — heavier, tighter, and more commanding than ever before.
The power of this quad-rock machine is undeniable. Smoke Witch have become a riff-crushing juggernaut whose groove would feel right at home in the hallowed halls of rock and doom legend. Australian audiences will already be well acquainted with the band’s reputation, having shared stages with icons and heavyweights such as John Garcia (US), Brant Bjork (US), Dozer (Sweden), Dwarves (US), Nashville Pussy (US), Greenleaf (Sweden), Beastwars (NZ), Sasquatch (US), 1000mods (Greece), Dr Colossus, and many more.
True psychedelic barbarian voyagers, Smoke Witch boast a prolific back catalogue born from countless studio journeys. These sessions have often featured guest appearances from fellow intergalactic travellers, including Fredrik Nordin and Tommi Holappa (Dozer), Isaiah Mitchell (Earthless), Matty Young (King Parrot), Jono Colliver (Dr Colossus), Craig Westwood (Christbait) and others.
Stream / Buy / Download the album on Bandcamp
Never content to rest on past conquests, Smoke Witch now stand fully armed and battle-ready. With the addition of vocalist Ran Maclurkin (Zombie Motors Wrecking Yard, Discordia), the band are locked, loaded, and primed for destruction — with plenty still left in the chamber. Smoke Witch have set the controls for the heart of the sun — and they’re burning brighter than ever.
Smoke Witch:
I am not the owner of the picture, video or original song. Therefore, all rights belong to their respective owners. If you are the owner of the picture, video or any of the songs, write me a private message located on the information page and I will delete the video, photos immediately!!
Photo by © Smoke Witch promo
