GENRE; Acoustic/ Alt-Folk/ Folk Rock/ Singer-Songwriter( Acoustic)
RELEASE DATE; 13 May, 2026
RATING; 4/5
Songs To Sacrifice is the kind of album that quietly pulls you in and refuses to let go. Created by Marty Van Wells, this deeply personal release feels raw, reflective, and emotionally exposed in ways that many modern records avoid. Scheduled for release on 13th May 2026, the album steps away from the safer approach of his earlier work and dives into something darker and far more meaningful. Van Wells sounds like an artist no longer interested in perfection, but in honesty. That decision gives the record a genuine emotional weight that immediately stands out.
The album carries clear influences from legendary writers and storytellers like Leonard Cohen, Townes Van Zandt, Nick Drake, and Nick Cave, yet it never feels like imitation. Instead, Van Wells shapes those inspirations into something distinctly his own. The music moves between folk, folk-rock, and something harder to define, blending acoustic guitar with harmonica, piano, layered vocals, and haunting melodies. Tracks like “King Of Pontus & Iceni Fyre” and “Fell & Oh, Too” capture that atmosphere perfectly, sounding intimate and cinematic at the same time. There’s a quiet intensity running through these songs that makes them feel best suited for late-night listening.
What makes “Songs To Sacrifice” especially compelling is the story behind it. After a difficult period of recovery and personal change, Van Wells pours his experiences into every lyric and arrangement. His recent fascination with mythology, philosophy, Greek tragedy, and ancient history shapes the writing throughout the album, giving the songs depth without sounding overly complicated. Recorded entirely in his own space without outside influence, the project feels incredibly personal. Rather than polishing every edge smooth, he allows the music to breathe naturally, imperfections and all.
That honesty becomes the album’s greatest strength. “Songs To Sacrifice” does not try to chase trends or fit neatly into one category. It feels like the work of someone creating music because they genuinely need to say something important. Marty Van Wells has delivered an album filled with atmosphere, emotion, and authenticity, proving that independent music can still feel fearless, thoughtful, and completely human.
TRACKS
1. The King of Pontus
2. Iceni Fyee
3. Hysteria
4. Mayfly
5. Friend or Foe
6. Revelations
7. Fell
8. Oh, Too
9. Sing Along
