Biography
It is very common to see or hear the phrase “In Remembrance,” whether it is on a bumper sticker, sign or in the media. In April of 2008, four musicians united and gave the phrase a new meaning by naming their band In Remembrance… to honor every member of our armed forces who has fought for our rights and freedom. Through music, the band seeks to remind its audience that fallen soldiers are our country’s heroes and should never be forgotten. The band specifically honors Capt. Brian S. Letendre (the older brother of lead singer Nick Letendre), who lost his life in Operation Iraqi Freedom on May 3rd 2006. Not only was he a brave Marine, he was a loving husband, father, son and brother who touched many lives. He is buried in Arlington National Cemetery beside his brothers in arms who have fought valiantly in defense of our nation.
Lead singer Nick Letendre is a music student at Old Dominion University. Letendre founded the band in order to tell his late brother’s story. He provides the band with rhythm guitar, lead vocals and lyrics and is musically influenced by alternative rock and country as well as classical music. Joe Ford is also a guitarist for In Remembrance… Joe is a vocal major at the College of Charleston in South Carolina. Joe is influenced by blues guitar and provides strong vocal harmonies for the band. Daniel Rastatter plays bass guitar and also sings back-up vocals. Daniel is influenced by funk, progressive and classic rock. Nick Harris is the band’s drummer. Harris is influenced by hip-hop and progressive rock. Each member brings elements of his own style to create a unique and edgy rock and roll sound.
In Remembrance… is committed to not only creating great music, but also changing people’s lives off stage and outside the studio. They are committed to donating 10% of CD sales to the TAPS organization. TAPS assists families who have lost loved ones overseas. The band also filmed a not-for-profit music video for their single “Brother” in Arlington Cemetery in which they interviewed other families who have lost loved ones in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Ordinarily there is an extensive red tape process in order to receive permission to film in Arlington and few people are actually allowed, however, after hearing “Brother” and the poignant story behind the lyrics, the administration at Arlington granted the band permission immediately.
In Remembrance… actively performs in the Northern Virginia and Norfolk areas at everything from private parties and local bars and restaurants to professional venues. Letendre has even performed solo for injured troops who received care at Walter Reed Medical Center. Their most recent gig was the Norva in Norfolk, Virginia, where they hope to play again in the near future. Their set list includes country and 90’s covers in addition to original songs. You can listen to some of their original material and view upcoming events and shows at myspace.com/InRemembranceRock and support local music as well as supporting our troops!
