New Zealand metal band Alien Weaponry has released a new video for the song “Mau Moko”. This is not only a musical work, but also a powerful manifesto aimed at preserving and popularizing Maori traditions, writes WomanEL.
According to the musicians, Maori have a rich history and traditions that were almost lost during colonization. These traditions are now in the process of a much-needed cultural revival, and this inspired the creation of the track.
We wanted the lyrics to remind people that moko is and always will be a part of who we are. With the video for the song, we wanted to show the dark side of moko history and how the head trade played a role in the near disappearance of an entire nation, the band members commented.
Moko is a traditional Maori tattoo that symbolizes identity, history and connection to ancestors. The clip reveals a tragic page in the history of Maori culture: the trade in tattooed skulls, which often became objects of European and American museum collections. This practice contributed significantly to the near-extinction of the Maori people.
In addition to its powerful cultural message, the release marked the beginning of a new era for the band. Alien Weaponry embarked on a North American tour, opening for the legendary Kerry King, which added even more weight to the event. The video for “Mau Moko” is now available to watch and is generating lively discussion among metal fans and cultural heritage advocates.
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