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In the rugged northern landscape of Malta, a cave once occupied by some of the island’s earliest humans is now the focus of a very different kind of historical investigation—one that bridges archaeology with underground music culture. The cave in question, known as Latnija and colloquially referred to as It-Toqba or Il-Ħofra, recently made international headlines through groundbreaking research led by Eleanor Scerri. As part of the IslandLab project, excavations revealed evidence pushing human occupation of the Maltese islands back 8,000 years to the Mesolithic period—over a millennium earlier than previously believed. But while its ancient past is now being rewritten, Latnija Cave also holds a far more recent—and far less documented—history. A Different Kind of Heritage Latnija Cave - photo: Steely D Building on this archaeological milestone, Joshua de Giorgio has partnered with John Schofield, Director of Studies in Cultural Heritage at the University of York, to explore the cave’s role in Malta’s underground music scene. Their new project shifts focus from prehistoric habitation to the late 20th and early 21st centuries, when the cave reportedly became an unlikely venue for impromptu “cave parties.” These gatherings—rumored to have taken place throughout the 1990s and early 2000s—are remembered by some as raw, unregulated expressions of rave culture. Schofield, himself a self-described lover of live music and occasional DJ, recently took to social media to crowdsource information. In a public post, he called on DJs and locals with memories of the era to come forward, specifically asking whether anyone had performed at or attended parties in a Maltese cave during that period. Reconstructing a Fleeting Scene Unlike formal music venues, these cave raves left little in the way of official documentation. There are no ticket stubs, permits, or lineups archived in institutional collections. Instead, the researchers are turning to oral histories, personal photographs, and ephemeral materials such as flyers—if any still exist. The project aims to capture not just who played and what music defined the scene, but also the sensory and social experience of the gatherings: the acoustics of the cave, the atmosphere, and the motivations of those who sought out such unconventional spaces. This approach aligns with a growing academic interest in “alternative heritage”—the idea that cultural significance is not limited to ancient artifacts or monumental architecture, but also includes lived experiences and subcultures that shape a place’s identity. Echoes of a Global Movement Cave Rave early 1990s Cumbria UK - photo: Steely D The Maltese cave parties may also reflect a broader phenomenon. Across Europe in the 1990s, rave culture thrived in unconventional locations—from abandoned warehouses to remote outdoor settings. Notably, similar “cave raves” were documented in places like Cumbria in the UK, suggesting a shared ethos of reclaiming natural or forgotten spaces for collective musical expression. By situating Malta within this wider context, the researchers hope to understand how global movements in electronic music culture manifested locally—and how they intersected with the island’s unique geography and history. A Call for Memories At its core, the project is collaborative. De Giorgio has issued an open invitation to anyone with memories of the cave parties to contribute, whether through interviews, images, or personal anecdotes. Participants can remain anonymous, and the research will adhere to established ethical standards, with the goal of producing a peer-reviewed academic publication. In doing so, the team hopes to preserve a fleeting chapter of Malta’s cultural history—one that, like the echoes of music in a cave, risks fading unless actively recorded. Layers of Time John Schofield in Valletta 2025 - photo John Schofield Latnija Cave now stands as a compelling symbol of continuity and contrast: a site where traces of Mesolithic life coexist with the more recent reverberations of basslines and dance floors. From prehistoric shelter to underground rave venue, its story challenges conventional boundaries between archaeology and modern heritage. As research unfolds, one thing becomes clear: history is not only what is buried deep in the ground—but also what lingers in memory, waiting to be rediscovered. If you've partied at Latnija get involved and share your experiences!!

A Complete History of Songs and Artists Malta’s participation in the Eurovision Song Contest is a story of resilience, musical excellence, and an enduring ambition to secure a long-awaited victory. Since its debut 55 years ago, in 1971, the country has sent a wide range of artists and songs, evolving from locally inspired entries in the Maltese language to polished, internationally competitive productions in English. Although Malta has never won the contest, it has achieved remarkable success, particularly during the 1990s and early 2000s, and remains one of Eurovision’s most respected non-winning nations. Joe Grech – Marija l-Maltija (Photo: RTÉ Archives) Malta first appeared in the contest in 1971 with Joe Grech performing Marija l-Maltija, a song deeply rooted in Maltese culture and identity. Despite its authenticity, the entry finished in last place. The following year, Helen Micallef and Joe Cutajar represented the country with L-Imħabba, a gentle romantic duet, but once again Malta finished last. After withdrawing in 1973, Malta returned in 1975 with Renato Micallef singing a pop song titled Singing This Song that achieved a modest 12th place. Financial and strategic concerns led to another withdrawal in 1975, marking the beginning of a long absence from the competition.   Paul Giordimaina and Georgina - Could It Be (Photo: Youtube) When Malta returned in 1991, it did so with a new approach that would define its Eurovision identity for years to come: strong vocalists performing English-language ballads. Paul Giordimaina and Giorgina opened this new era with Could It Be, a soft and melodic ballad that placed sixth. The following year saw a major breakthrough when Mary Spiteri performed Little Child, an emotional and powerful song about innocence and hope, finishing in third place. This success continued with William Mangion and This Time in 1993, a reflective love ballad that placed eighth, and Chris & Moira in 1994 with More Than Love, a romantic orchestral piece that reached fifth place. In 1995, Mike Spiteri sang Keep Me in Mind, a heartfelt plea for lasting love, finishing tenth, while Miriam Christine followed in 1996 with In a Woman’s Heart, a song exploring emotional strength from a female perspective, also finishing tenth.   Malta’s consistency continued in 1997 when Debbie Scerri performed Let Me Fly, an uplifting song about freedom and aspiration, placing ninth. A defining moment came in 1998 when Chiara delivered The One That I Love, a dramatic and vocally demanding ballad that earned Malta another third-place finish and established her as one of the country’s most iconic Eurovision performers. The nineties were seen off by Believe ‘N Peace performed by Times Three placing fifteenth. The early 2000s maintained this momentum, with Claudette Pace performing Desire in 2000, a passionate song about longing that placed eighth, and Fabrizio Faniello in 2001 with Another Summer Night, an upbeat Mediterranean pop track that finished ninth. Ira Losco - 7th Wonder (Photo: Eurovisionary) Malta reached its peak in 2002 when Ira Losco performed 7th Wonder, a catchy and polished pop anthem about admiration and love. The song achieved second place, Malta’s best result to date, and became one of the country’s most celebrated Eurovision entries. In 2003 Lynn Chircop sang To Dream Again placing 25 th  while in 2004, Julie and Ludwig represented Malta with On Again... Off Again, a playful duet about a turbulent relationship, finishing twelfth. Another major highlight came in 2005 when Chiara returned with Angel, a powerful and emotional ballad that once again brought Malta to second place, reinforcing its reputation as a powerhouse of vocal performance.   The introduction of semi-finals in the mid-2000s marked a turning point. In 2006, Fabrizio Faniello returned with I Do, a mid-tempo love song that failed to resonate, finishing last in the final. Over the following years, Malta struggled to maintain its earlier success, often failing to qualify for the final. This happened seven times since after the 2006 edition. In 2007 Olivia Lewis sang Vertigo, while Morena sang Vodka in 2008, both failed to qualify. Nevertheless, there were notable moments, such as in 2009 when Chiara returned with What If We, a reflective ballad about regret and possibility, and in 2013 when Gianluca Bezzina charmed audiences with Tomorrow, a cheerful, ukulele-driven song about optimism that achieved eighth place. Prior to Gianluca’s appearance Malta’s paricipations were somewhat bittersweet with Thea Garrett’s My Dream and Glen Vella’ One Life both failing to qualify in 2010 and 2011 respectively. While Kurt Calleja placed twenty-first with the song This Is The night in 2012. In 2014 Firelight placed twenty third with Coming Home while the following year Malta again failed to qualify with Amber’s Warrior. In 2016, Ira Losco returned with Walk on Water, a modern and empowering pop ballad about resilience, finishing twelfth. Again Malta failed to qualify for the finals in two successive years, in 2017 with Breathlessly sung by Claudia Faniello and in 2018 with Christabelle’s Taboo. Destiny Chukunyere - Je Me Casse (Photo: TVM) In the modern era, Malta has experimented with contemporary styles in an effort to appeal to both juries and televoters. In 2019, Michela Pace performed Chameleon, a sleek pop song about identity and adaptability, finishing fourteenth. In 2020 the festival was cancelled making it the first and only edition in the contest's history to be cancelled, when it was called off on 18 March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Malta was going to participate with All My Love sung by Destiny Chukunyere who returned with one of the strongest recent results when she delivered Je Me Casse in 2021, a bold and empowering track blending jazz and pop influences, which placed seventh. However, subsequent years proved challenging: Emma Muscat represented Malta in 2022 with I Am What I Am, a self-empowerment anthem that did not qualify, followed by The Busker in 2023 with Dance (Our Own Party), a funky and playful celebration of individuality that also failed to reach the final. In 2024, Sarah Bonnici performed Loop, a contemporary dance-pop track, but finished last in the semi-final.   Aidan Cassar - Bella (Photo: Eurovisionworld) Malta returned to the final in 2025 with Miriana Conte and her song Serving, a modern pop performance marked by strong staging and attitude, finishing seventeenth. In 2026, Aidan Cassar was selected with Bella, a contemporary entry blending Maltese musical identity with international pop sensibilities, continuing Malta’s ongoing effort to secure its first Eurovision victory.   Over more than five decades, Malta’s Eurovision journey has evolved significantly, moving from culturally rooted beginnings to internationally competitive productions. Its entries have often focused on strong vocals, emotional storytelling, and polished compositions. While the trophy has remained elusive, Malta’s consistent dedication to quality music and memorable performances has ensured its lasting place in the history of the Eurovision Song Contest.   History of Participation 1971 Joe Grech "Marija l-Maltija" 1972 Helen and Joseph "L-imħabba" 1975 Renato "Singing This Song" 1991 Paul Giordimaina & Georgina "Could It Be" 1992 Mary Spiteri "Little Child" 1993 William Mangion "This Time" 1994 Chris & Moira "More Than Love" 1995 Mike Spiteri "Keep Me in Mind" 1996 Miriam Christine "In a Woman's Heart" 1997 Debbie Scerri "Let Me Fly" 1998 Chiara "The One That I Love" 1999 Times Three "Believe 'n Peace" 2000 Claudette Pace "Desire" 2001 Fabrizio Faniello "Another Summer Night" 2002 Ira Losco "7th Wonder" 2003 Lynn Chircop "To Dream Again" 2004 Julie and Ludwig "On Again... Off Again" 2005 Chiara "Angel" 2006 Fabrizio Faniello "I Do" 2007 Olivia Lewis "Vertigo" 2008 Morena "Vodka" 2009 Chiara "What If We" 2010 Thea Garrett "My Dream" 2011 Glen Vella "One Life" 2012 Kurt Calleja "This Is the Night" 2013 Gianluca "Tomorrow" 2014 Firelight "Coming Home" 2015 Amber "Warrior" 2016 Ira Losco "Walk on Water" 2017 Claudia Faniello "Breathlessly" 2018 Christabelle "Taboo" 2019 Michela "Chameleon" 2020 Destiny "All of My Love" * 2021 Destiny "Je me casse" 2022 Emma Muscat "I Am What I Am" 2023 The Busker "Dance (Our Own Party)" 2024 Sarah Bonnici "Loop" 2025 Miriana Conte "Serving" 2026 Aidan "Bella" Contest cancelled *

Major Anthony Aquilina stands as one of the most influential figures in the history of Maltese band music. A gifted musician, composer, and bandmaster, his legacy continues to resonate not only across Malta but also within Maltese communities abroad. Major Aquilina in uniform. photo: M3P Early Life and Musical Beginnings Anthony Aquilina was born on 25 July 1906 in Ħaż-Żebbuġ. Although his given name was Pawlu, he became widely known as Anthony throughout his life. His musical journey began at a remarkably young age. In 1914, at just eight years old, he was encouraged to join the Soċjetà Filarmonika Banda San Filep in his hometown.   By 1916, he had already begun playing with the band, demonstrating early promise. At the age of twelve, Aquilina took a significant step forward by joining the army as a Boy Bandsman, a role he held for five years. This early exposure to military band discipline and structure laid the foundation for his future career. Studies and Military Career photo: Facebook Aquilina’s talents earned him the opportunity to further his studies in the United Kingdom. He attended the prestigious Royal Military School of Music at Kneller Hall in Twickenham, one of the foremost institutions for military music training. His dedication and skill culminated in an outstanding achievement: in 1931, he graduated as Senior Cadet, finishing first in his course.   Upon returning to Malta, Aquilina rejoined the Royal Malta Artillery (RMA), where he quickly rose through the ranks. He was appointed bandmaster and later became regimental bandmaster. In September 1940, he was commissioned as an officer, marking another milestone in his distinguished career. He served with the army until 1958, retiring with the rank of Major—a title by which he would be fondly remembered. Contribution to Broadcasting and Music Direction This is a photograph of Major Aquilina’s debut with the Duke of Connaught’s Own Band. The date was 6 January 1946, and the location was inside St Aloysius College in Birkirkara. Photo: Eric Busuttil After retiring from military service, Aquilina continued to shape Malta’s musical landscape. He joined Rediffusion (Malta) Ltd., the island’s leading broadcasting service at the time, where he served as Director of Music until 1972. In this role, he influenced public musical taste and helped promote Maltese band music to a wider audience. A Prolific Composer Photographed during a concert. photo M3P Known affectionately as “The Major,” Aquilina composed around 50 band marches, many of which remain staples of the Maltese festa tradition. His works are still widely performed today, both in Malta and in Maltese communities around the world.   His compositions are celebrated for their vibrancy, melodic strength, and suitability for festive occasions. Among his most popular marches are Aħna Tfal ta’ Ġejtu, Amos, Aswero, Balfrendosan, Benedict Silver Jubilee, Bozen, Ċieka u Ċelest, Come On Baldass, Come On The Stripes, Dur Tond Fred, Elena Elena, El Picador, Et Donnay, Fiorentina, Fiesta, Forward, Fonz u Peppina, Forza Ċensina, Forza Ċensu Tagħna, Ġianni Sfarfar, Guitarreros, Ix-Xiħ, Josephine, Dik, Dak u l-Oħra, Lilywhites, Melita, Mona, Ta’ Ġerrew, Viva ix-Xemx, Wenzinos, and Zorro.   In addition to marches, he was also commissioned to compose ten hymns for parish titular feasts, further cementing his role in Malta’s religious and cultural traditions. Associations and Legacy Beyond his military career, Aquilina maintained strong ties with several leading Maltese band clubs. He was closely associated with the Soċjetà Filarmonika King’s Own, the Duke of Connaught’s Own Band Club in Birkirkara, and the Soċjetà Mużikali Sant’ Antnin, also in Birkirkara, of which he was a founder and Honorary President. A Prolific Composer. photo Facebook His music reached an even wider audience through recordings. Some of his most popular works were released in three cassette collections, and later, due to popular demand, two more releases featuring a broader selection of his compositions were issued. Personal Life and Death In 1932, Anthony Aquilina married Catherine Ross, and the couple had one son. Despite his many professional commitments, he remained dedicated to his family life. In later years. photo Facebook Major Anthony Aquilina passed away on 21 September 1985. However, his music and influence endure, making him a central figure in the development of Maltese band culture.   Major Anthony Aquilina is rightly regarded as one of Malta’s most important composers of festa band marches. His work not only defined a genre but also became an integral part of Maltese identity and celebration. Decades after his passing, “The Major” continues to be celebrated through the enduring popularity of his music—a testament to his remarkable talent and lasting impact. _______________________________________________________________________________ Il-Maġġur Anthony Aquilina: Surmast tal-Marċi Maltin is a paperback book written by Victor Galea and published in 2008. Spanning 130 pages, the book explores the life and legacy of Major Anthony Aquilina, highlighting his important role as a leading composer and bandmaster of Maltese marches.

Melodija - The hub for music. We are an online community that provides local music artists a platform to unleash their creative potential and showcase their talent to the world. We aim to support and uplift local bands and musicians and make them feel their voices are being heard. Through putting efforts into building a solid digital space, we envision a future where local bands and artists of Malta emerge and gain recognition. What's New Artists Karl Galea Ray Agius Demis Fenech Tony Bartolo Radio KrishTalk - David Cachia Iċ-Ċejċa Heatstrokes: Episode 16 Year 15 Rock Moods 2615 Reverb 740 WMSG 485 Xejn Ħlief Rock 375 Bands SK2M Motherknives X-Tend All Hands Lost Latest News Different Light press release From Malta’s Shadows to Vinyl: The Long-Lost Legacy of Evil Grave Resurfaces Back Here, With a Heavy Heart 💔 Aurelio Belli, a Pillar of Malta’s Musical Life, Dies at 49 Skald Announce Intimate Musical Gathering Series at Casa Gourgion, Mdina — Saturday 16 May more news... upcoming events Dark Malta Festival 2026 19 April 2026 Bloom Festival Malta 2026 (2) 19 April 2026 more events... Latest Merch more merch... Quick View Real Life [CD] | My Freespirit Price €7.00 Quick View The Undying Patch | Mur.Doc 104 Price €7.00 Quick View X-Tend Re-Mixes 2024 [LP] | X-Tend Price €20.00 Quick View Low Stock X-Tend 1984-2024 [LP] | X-Tend Price €35.00 Quick View X-Tend 1984-2024 [CD] | X-Tend Price €15.00 Quick View Bassic Attitude [CD] | Simon Sammut Price €8.00 Quick View Crossing [CD] | Simon Sammut Price €8.00 Quick View Gravity [CD] | Simon Sammut Price €10.00 Quick View Visions of Transcendence [T-Shirt-B] | Simon Sammut Price €25.00 Quick View Visions of Transcendence [T-Shirt-A] | Simon Sammut Price €25.00 Quick View Visions of Transcendence [Mug] | Simon Sammut Price €15.00 Quick View Visions of Transcendence [LP] | Simon Sammut Price €25.00 Quick View Visions of Transcendence [CD] | Simon Sammut Price €15.00 Quick View Sword of Fierbois [CD] | Albert Bell's Sacro Sanctus Price €15.00 Quick View Liber III: Codex Templarum [CD] | Albert Bell's Sacro Sanctus Price €15.00 Quick View Ad Aeturnum [CD] | Albert Bell's Sacro Sanctus Price €15.00 Quick View Deus Volt [CD] | Albert Bell's Sacro Sanctus Price €15.00 Quick View State of Chaos [CD] | Animamortua Price €5.00 Quick View Gods Among Us [CD] | Animamortua Price €10.00 Quick View Gods Among Us T-Shirt | Animamortua Price €20.00 Quick View Brotherhood Bundle [CD + DVD] Regular Price €13.00 Sale Price €10.00 Quick View Brotherhood [CD] Price €5.00 Quick View Brotherhood [DVD-BluRay] Price €8.00 Quick View Brotherhood [DVD] Price €8.00 Artist of the Month Pamela Bezzina Click to read more about this amazing artist Sponsors

Melodija - The hub for music. We are an online community that provides local music artists a platform to unleash their creative potential and showcase their talent to the world. We aim to support and uplift local bands and musicians and make them feel their voices are being heard. Through putting efforts into building a solid digital space, we envision a future where local bands and artists of Malta emerge and gain recognition. Discover your new favourite bands Start Browsing What's New Artists Karl Galea Ray Agius Demis Fenech Tony Bartolo Radio KrishTalk - David Cachia Iċ-Ċejċa Heatstrokes: Episode 16 Year 15 Rock Moods 2615 Reverb 740 WMSG 485 Xejn Ħlief Rock 375 Bands SK2M Motherknives X-Tend All Hands Lost Latest News Different Light press release From Malta’s Shadows to Vinyl: The Long-Lost Legacy of Evil Grave Resurfaces Back Here, With a Heavy Heart 💔 Aurelio Belli, a Pillar of Malta’s Musical Life, Dies at 49 Skald Announce Intimate Musical Gathering Series at Casa Gourgion, Mdina — Saturday 16 May more news... upcoming events Dark Malta Festival 2026 19 April 2026 Button Bloom Festival Malta 2026 (2) 19 April 2026 Button more events... Latest Merch more merch... Quick View Real Life [CD] | My Freespirit Price €7.00 Quick View The Undying Patch | Mur.Doc 104 Price €7.00 Quick View X-Tend Re-Mixes 2024 [LP] | X-Tend Price €20.00 Quick View Low Stock X-Tend 1984-2024 [LP] | X-Tend Price €35.00 Quick View X-Tend 1984-2024 [CD] | X-Tend Price €15.00 Quick View Bassic Attitude [CD] | Simon Sammut Price €8.00 Quick View Crossing [CD] | Simon Sammut Price €8.00 Quick View Gravity [CD] | Simon Sammut Price €10.00 Quick View Visions of Transcendence [T-Shirt-B] | Simon Sammut Price €25.00 Quick View Visions of Transcendence [T-Shirt-A] | Simon Sammut Price €25.00 Quick View Visions of Transcendence [Mug] | Simon Sammut Price €15.00 Quick View Visions of Transcendence [LP] | Simon Sammut Price €25.00 Quick View Visions of Transcendence [CD] | Simon Sammut Price €15.00 Quick View Sword of Fierbois [CD] | Albert Bell's Sacro Sanctus Price €15.00 Quick View Liber III: Codex Templarum [CD] | Albert Bell's Sacro Sanctus Price €15.00 Quick View Ad Aeturnum [CD] | Albert Bell's Sacro Sanctus Price €15.00 Quick View Deus Volt [CD] | Albert Bell's Sacro Sanctus Price €15.00 Quick View State of Chaos [CD] | Animamortua Price €5.00 Quick View Gods Among Us [CD] | Animamortua Price €10.00 Quick View Gods Among Us T-Shirt | Animamortua Price €20.00 Quick View Brotherhood Bundle [CD + DVD] Regular Price €13.00 Sale Price €10.00 Quick View Brotherhood [CD] Price €5.00 Quick View Brotherhood [DVD-BluRay] Price €8.00 Quick View Brotherhood [DVD] Price €8.00 Artist of the Month Pamela Bezzina Click to read more about this amazing artist Sponsors