This festive season, Merthyr Tydfil’s own Martyrs have a heartfelt surprise for music lovers—and it’s all for a good cause. The duo’s brand new six-track EP, ‘sno-fi’, is out now as a Bandcamp exclusive, with every penny raised going directly to Cancer Research UK.
Martyrs—Jon and Michael—share a musical bond that began in their school days, forming their first band together in a castle in Merthyr Tydfil. Years later, they reunited as Martyrs, channeling their DIY spirit and independent ethos into a genre-defying catalogue that swings from disco to metal, ambient to post-rock, and everything in between. Their previous albums, ‘Un Diavolo In Casa’ (2022) and ‘Luminism’ (2024), along with popular EPs like ‘Syncline Folds’ and ‘Halloween Dream’, showcase their fearless approach to music-making.
Inspired by a chat with indie pop legends The Understudies about their Christmas Covers Party in London (happening December 17th at The Waiting Room), Jon and Michael decided to create ‘sno-fi’ as a special Christmas release, with all proceeds supporting Cancer Research UK. Written and recorded in their own living rooms, ‘sno-fi’ sees Martyrs returning to the lo-fi roots of their debut, offering a raw, intimate sound that stands apart from their recent lush productions.
Highlights of the EP include the band’s first-ever live recording—a stripped-back, acoustic version of lead track ‘snowglobe’, captured in the empty lobby of Ramsgate’s former Granville Hotel. The EP also features a playful role reversal, with multi-instrumentalist Jon and vocalist Michael swapping places for the spoken word adventure ‘snow through frosted glass’. Rounding out the collection, ‘snow came down’ shines as a fully realized version of Michael’s original home demo, elevated by Jon’s ethereal instrumentation.
This project is more than just a musical release—it’s a chance for listeners to make a difference. By purchasing ‘sno-fi’ on Bandcamp, you’re not only supporting independent artists but also contributing to vital cancer research.
Give the gift of music and hope this holiday season. Head over to Bandcamp, grab your copy of ‘sno-fi’, and join Martyrs in making a real impact—one song at a time.
For further information, please visit:
https://martyrsuk.bandcamp.com/album/sno-fi-ep
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