Alla en el bajo by Gerónimo Martinelli Massa, Ismael Aguilar

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

Story behind the Tango Alla en el bajo

The lyrics of “Alla en el bajo” paint a vivid scene taking place in a low-lying area by the river where two men converge in an atmosphere charged with tension and unspoken history. The evocative language and the portrayal of the shadowy, still environment adds a poignant backdrop to the confrontation. This scene is intensified by the contrast with the woman involved, who, detached from the turmoil, indulges in her femininity at a dance, aware of her allure and its effects.

Symbolism of Alla en el bajo

The use of natural elements like the quietly dreaming river and the whispering willows in “Alla en el bajo” serves as a symbolic reflection of the internal states of the characters and the undercurrents of their emotions. The night trembling and the distant barking dog heighten the sense of impending doom. The reference to duel as a resolution to the conflict over the ‘right’ to a woman underscores themes of honor and possession prevalent in traditional societies, where personal relationships often turn into matters of public consequence.

Alla en el bajo in historic Context

Set in the year 1949 in Argentina, a time when Tango music expressed the soul of its people, “Alla en el bajo” reflects the cultural and social ethos of its era. This period was marked by passionate expressions of daily experiences and emotions, often revolving around themes of love, betrayal, and bravery. Such narratives would resonate deeply in the communal gatherings of Tango salons, where storytelling through music was a key element of the social fabric.

Gerónimo Martinelli Massa, Ismael Aguilar

Gerónimo Martinelli Massa and Ismael Aguilar were notable figures in the Tango music scene, contributing through evocative narratives set to the rhythmic movements and melodies of the genre.