Allá en el bajo by Gerónimo Martinelli Massa, Ismael Aguilar

Allá en el bajo is a Tango written by Gerónimo Martinelli Massa, Ismael Aguilar and composed by Pedro Noda.

Story behind the Tango Allá en el bajo

The lyrics of “Allá en el bajo” depict a stark scene set in a secluded riverbank area, where the shadows sleep and the river dreams quietly, setting a melancholic and almost eerie mood. Two men, portrayed as rivals, meet to settle their dispute over a woman through a duel. This dramatic scenario unfolds while the woman, obliviously, continues to dance provocatively at a local dance, unaware of the strife she has incited. The duel is fierce, with both men unwilling to yield, their knives flashing in the moonlight – a traditional scene of Argentine machismo and passion.

Symbolism of Allá en el bajo

The song is rich with symbolism that enhances the tragic and tense atmosphere. The “shadows” sleeping and the “quiet dreaming” river may symbolize the hidden, darker human emotions and secrets. The wind’s lament through the willows accentuates the somber mood. The phrase “desflorar los besos de la mujer fatal” symbolically represents the woman’s allure and the destructiveness of her charm, likening her to a “snake” with eyes holding the “poison of passion,” which emphasizes the danger and seduction she represents. The intense and deadly duel symbolizes the ultimate expression of machismo and the cultural emphasis on honor and possessiveness over love interests.

Allá en el bajo in historic Context

Recorded in 1926, “Allá en el bajo” reflects the social and cultural dynamics of early 20th century Argentina, particularly in Buenos Aires. The Bajo was a lower area near the river, often considered a rough and humble neighborhood. During this period, Tango was a burgeoning expression of the urban working-class ethos, capturing their struggles, passions, and daily lives. Duels, though illegal, were still romanticized and seen as a method of resolving conflicts, especially those involving matters of honor and love. The portrayal of the divisive love triangle and the subsequent duel in the tango aligns with the societal norms and expectations of that era, where public perception and honor were highly valued.

Gerónimo Martinelli Massa, Ismael Aguilar

Gerónimo Martinelli Massa and Ismael Aguilar were prominent figures in the Argentine tango scene, contributing significantly to its musical literature with poignant and powerful lyrics that captured the essence of their era’s social and cultural climate.