When a usurper, Lapita, seizes the throne of Jogbo the scene is set for a film about the power struggles and corruption of a mythical African state tied up to the rituals of kingship – principally the beating of the Saworoide (or brass bell) drum. A homespun political parable emerges drawing interest by converting the typically unstable African political stereotypes into a fable complete with songs and a Greek Chorus that reflect upon the plot.

An American musician working in Nigeria becomes involved with a patriot hunted by a mercenary in Africa.