About This Footage
In 1988, the same year "There She Goes" catapulted The La's into the UK charts, a different kind of journey was unfolding in Central Africa. A civil war had ravaged the region, leaving behind a trail of destruction and desperation. Amidst this chaos, a group of bush taxis, including livestock trucks repurposed as vehicles, were navigating treacherous roads to reach the isolated city of Ngoto.
The footage, shot by Guillaume LHOTELLIER, captures the harsh realities of life in war-torn Central Africa. The La's, who had just achieved mainstream success with their jangly indie-rock sound, are nowhere to be seen in this clip. Instead, we're presented with a stark contrast to the carefree spirit of 1980s British music scene. The camera pans over dusty roads, showing makeshift ambulances racing against time to reach patients in need.
The La's' brief period of fame is often reduced to their hit single and the band's subsequent disbandment. Yet, this rare footage offers a glimpse into the world of Lee Mavers and his collaborators during a pivotal moment in music history. Formed in 1983 by Mike Badger, The La's were part of the Liverpool post-punk scene, which also spawned bands like Echo & the Bunnymen and Wah!.
As we watch the clip, it becomes clear that LHOTELLIER's documentary is not just about the struggles faced by the people of Ngoto but also about the resilience of those who continue to live there. The La's' music, with its laid-back, Byrds-inspired sound, seems almost incongruous in this context. However, their story – one of creative expression and perseverance – serves as a poignant reminder that even amidst chaos, art can thrive.
The footage is remarkable not only for its rarity but also for its unflinching portrayal of life in war-torn Central Africa. The La's' music may have captured the hearts of many in 1980s Britain, but this clip shows us that there was – and still is – a world beyond our own, where people face unimaginable hardships with courage and humor.
As we watch the bush taxis navigating treacherous roads, we're reminded of the power of music to transcend borders and time. The La's' legacy may be tied to their brief moment in the spotlight, but this footage serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity that exists beyond the confines of fame or fortune.
LHOTELLIER's documentary is a powerful exploration of human resilience, one that challenges our perceptions of what it means to live through conflict. The La's' music may have been a product of its time, but this footage reminds us that art can be a reflection of the world around us – even when we least expect it.
As we're left with the haunting images of Ngoto's dusty roads and makeshift ambulances, we're forced to confront the harsh realities of life in war-torn Central Africa. The La's' story may have been one of brief success, but this footage serves as a powerful reminder that true artistry lies not in fame or fortune but in the human spirit's capacity to endure even in the face of unimaginable adversity.
The camera lingers on the faces of those who've made it through the night, their eyes sunken from lack of sleep but still filled with a glimmer of hope. It's a testament to the power of music – and art – to transcend even the most daunting challenges.
Curated from public records and music databases.
