Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
Fabrice Knecht Tango DJ
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These Tangos, Valses, and Milongas were recorded around the same time. Take a look to discover what else this orchestra—or others—may have recorded during the same week or even on the exact same day.
Cambalache is a Tango written by Enrique Santos Discepolo and composed by Enrique Santos Discepolo.
The tango “Cambalache” paints a bleak yet realistic portrait of society, critiquing its moral degradation. The lyrics convey a world that is perpetually corrupted, from past to present. Discepolo challenges the listener’s sense of justice and moral equilibrium by equating traditionally contrasting figures such as the educated and the ignorant, the thief and the honest workman. The core message is a displeasure and disenchantment with global equity, mirroring a personal and collective disdain for societal values in desperation.
The title itself, “Cambalache,” which can be translated as “junk shop” or “bargain,” symbolizes a place where various items are randomly mixed, reflecting the song’s view of a world where moral values and societal roles are in disarray. The lyric “el que no llora no mama y el que no afana es un gil” uses the symbolism of crying for fundamental needs and resorting to theft, denoting survival tactics in a flawed world. Discepolo employs biting irony and satire as he juxtaposes saints and sinners, thieves and heroes to reveal the indifferent juxtapositions existing within society.
“Cambalache” was released in 1958, a period marked by political and social unrest in Argentina. This era, characterized by economic difficulties, rising populism, and fluctuating governance, led to widespread cynicism and disillusionment among the populace. The tango reflects this chaotic environment and the pervasive feeling of despair and moral relativism. By metaphorically placing historical figures and everyday people on equal moral footing, Discepolo critiques not just Argentine society but the global condition of his time.
Enrique Santos Discepolo was a renowned Argentine tango composer and lyricist, known for his profound and impactful lyrics that often encapsulated the socio-political climate of his country.