Soraia Unleashes High-Octane Cover of The Sonics’ Garage Rock Classic “The Witch”

Philadelphia rock band releases its take on the garage-rock classic via Wicked Cool Records, alongside California tour dates this month.

Philly’s rock powerhouse Soraia has officially released “The Witch,” their fierce, reimagined take on the classic garage-rock anthem by The Sonics, out now via Wicked Cool Records.

Originally birthed on stage, the single evolved organically through the band’s relentless touring schedule. After spending years as a staple set-opener with The Sonics’ “Have Love Will Travel,” Soraia swapped in “The Witch” and watched its iconic opening scream instantly shift the energy in every room.

From Live Set Staple to Studio Single

“We’ve loved The Sonics and covered their songs for years,” says frontwoman ZouZou Mansour. “‘Have Love Will Travel’ was a setlist staple from 2011 through 2020. ‘The Witch’ originally replaced ‘Have Love’ in our live shows, but audiences responded so intensely that we decided to record our own horror-esque version for release. Every time we play it, that initial scream kicks both the band’s and the audience’s adrenaline into high gear like nothing else. We’re thrilled with how the studio version captures that energy.”

Soraia’s rendition injects the 1960s classic with their signature modern edge: raw, distorted guitars, heavy driving rhythms, and Mansour’s commanding vocal delivery. While arriving in time for the Halloween season, the track’s permanent spot in their live repertoire made bringing it into the studio an easy call.

A Landmark Year of New Releases

The new single caps off a prolific 2026 campaign for the Philly outfit, following a steady stream of releases including “Queens and Pharaohs,” “La Belgique,” and July’s “Limelight”, an introspective track exploring the lure and cost of fame.

Led by Mansour’s fiery stage presence, Soraia has built a loyal following through acclaimed albums such as Dead Reckoning, Dig Your Roots, and Bloom, backed by their reputation as one of the hardest-working live rock bands today. “The Witch” brings a core influence into the band’s ongoing narrative.

Upcoming California Tour Dates

Don’t miss Soraia live in Northern California this month:

October 23 – The Fireside Lounge (Alameda, CA)

October 24 – Rock n’ Roll Flea Market (Alameda, CA)

Listen & Connect

Stream “The Witch”: HERE

Connect with Soraia: Official Website | Instagram | Facebook

WICKED COOL RECORDS