Earlier this month, Hanoians were left heartbroken when waving farewell to much-loved art quarter Sixty Square, which closed for good on February 15. We're releasing this music video of Những Đứa Trẻ (The Children) as a tribute to both the area and Quan Cam, one of its most popular establishments.
Since opening just over a year ago, Sixty Square developed a devoted following among Hanoi’s youth. Left abandoned following use as a post office during French colonial rule, the crumbling buildings were transformed into bohemian cafes, a tattoo parlor, a vintage clothing store, a recording studio and galleries by a community of young creatives.
The space was never expected to remain open long-term – a short lease of only a few years was offered to the tenants – although it was expected to last at least another year.
In this performance in Quan Cam, Những Đứa Trẻ play one of their earliest hits: unreleased track 'Đom Đóm', which lead singer Loc wrote in 2011. In English, the name translates as 'firefly' — a fitting choice for remembering a place that burned so bright, yet disappeared so soon.
This clip also serves as a taster of what's coming next. We'll soon be launching a new music video series, inspired by the likes of NPR's Tiny Desk Concerts and La Blogotheque. Stay tuned!
Have a look at Những Đứa Trẻ's performance below:
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[Video produced by Chris Humphrey and Almaz Media. Shot by Magnus Graham and Vincent Baumont. Sound recording by Hoang Thi Thuy]
