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.
Casas viejas is a Tango written by Ivo Pelay and composed by Francisco Canaro.
The tango “Casas viejas” narrates the story of old houses that have witnessed numerous life stories, encapsulating the essence of times gone by. As these structures face demolition, the song delves into the reflections and memories embedded within their walls. Through a melancholic and reflective lens, the lyrics explore themes of change, loss, and the inevitable passage of time. The repeated expulsion of the homes resonates with the broader theme of modernity clashing with tradition, highlighting the emotional and cultural cost of urban development.
“Casas viejas” translates to “old houses” in English, serving as a potent symbol of the past and the bearer of countless untold stories. The lyrics utilize metaphors such as “Patios viejos, color de humedad” (Old courtyards, color of moisture) and “Platinados de luna” (Silvery with moonlight) to evoke a vivid imagery of these historical structures bathed in both moonlight and sunlight, symbolizing the passage of time and the cycle of daily life. The destruction of these houses is likened to cattle being led to slaughter, an impactful metaphor conveying resignation and the silent suffering of the old giving way to the new without protest nor farewell. This symbolism poignantly underscores a theme of inexorable change and dispossession.
Composed in 1979 by Ivo Pelay and Francisco Canaro, “Casas viejas” is set against the backdrop of Argentina’s period of rapid modernization and urbanization. During this era, cities like Buenos Aires saw extensive redevelopment, which involved the demolition of older buildings, often carrying rich historical and cultural significances. This tango captures the essence of change where old neighborhoods were being replaced with new infrastructures. By portraying this progress through the somber farewell to old houses, the song implicitly criticizes the sacrifice of cultural heritage for the sake of modernization, making a poignant commentary on the costs of industrial growth.
Ivo Pelay was a prominent Argentine playwright and lyricist, known for his rich contributions to the theater and music of Argentina.