Smoulder Witch Wife in an Alien World Review
Smoulder
Witch Wife in an Alien World
Cruz Del Sur Music
2026
Canadian/American band Smoulder have returned with their third effort, “Witch Wife in an Alien World.” This is my first real taste of the band, but I’m already familiar with the vibe they bring to the table. On paper, they’re tagged as Epic Power Doom Metal, and while they certainly hit all three of those marks, they bounce in and out of them so often, and sometimes within the same song, that it can be hard to keep track of exactly where you are.
Thanks to lead vocalist Sarah Ann, there’s also a strong Witch Mountain connection in the sound. The timber and shape of her vocals are often very reminiscent of Uta Plotkin. Majestic, commanding and firm when the song calls for it, she brings plenty of presence to the material and gives Smoulder a voice that’s easy to recognize.
Musically, the band is talented, and the songs are both well written and well produced. My only real hang-up is the constant shifting of tempos and directions. There were plenty of moments where I found myself wishing they’d just play it straight for a little longer and let a riff or groove breathe. Sometimes all those changes take a little of the power out of what’s happening and make it harder to grab onto a particular vibe and ride the wave. At least that’s how I listen to music.
Either way, Smoulder lives up to their name. There’s smoke and fire here, no question about it. And they’re on the right label with Cruz Del Sur Music, because these folks know this corner of the Metal world inside and out. They know where this kind of music belongs, who’s looking for it and how to get it in front of the right ears.
Standouts – “Water Wars”, “Cathedral Of Trees” and “Smouldering Remains”