The Great Siege of 1565. Undoubtedly it is one of the highlights and the greatest milestones in the history of Malta and its people. Pro Patria (for the love of my country), is the title of the promo album of local metal band Memento Nostri, but also a mission statement of the band which finds its roots in the love for culture and history of the band’s members.

One might ask, “But what does the Great Siege of Malta have to do with a Metal band?”. The answer lies within the concept of the band and their first album. This is a concept album which recounts the story of the Great Siege and which through a concoction of metal, Maltese folk, Ottoman folk, classical and neo-classical music portrays the great feat leading to victory by the Maltese led by the Knights of St. John. A tale of war, romance, hardship, celebration, prayer and victory entwined together give the band the unique sound that has already been welcomed with great acclamation by international pundits who had the occasion to listen to the first release of the single Decimation at the Gates.

Art is a great platform from which to make the history and one’s country known outside its shores. This is what the band and the management strongly believe and this is a crucial part of the mission they have undertaken with the launch of the promo album.

Pro Patria will be launched at Montekristo Estates on the 21 August in an event which will also see the official launch of the band and the video of the title track. The concert will be preceded by a number of themed events and all proceeds from the event will go towards Puttinu Cares. Memento Nostri will be supported by Frenzy Mono as opening act.

Memento Nostri are : Michael (vocals and guitars), Alexia (vocals), Mark (guitars and orchestrations) and Rex (bass guitar).