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.
Como dos extraños is a Tango written by José María Contursi and composed by Pedro Laurenz.
The tango “Como dos extraños” narrates a poignant story of reunion and disillusionment. The lyrics explore themes of love lost and the painful realization of how time can change feelings and relationships. Initially, the narrator speaks of a profound loneliness and a fear of dying far from the person they once loved, hinting at a deep emotional connection. However, upon reuniting, they discover that they have become strangers, recognizing that time has eroded the love and connection they once shared. This transition from yearning to stark realization lends a tragic depth to the music and lyrics.
In “Como dos extraños,” there is poignant symbolism and thoughtful language that deepens the emotional impact of the lyrics. The phrase “la burla de la realidad,” which translates to “the mockery of reality,” reflects the heart’s illusions versus the harsh truths encountered. This highlights the contrast between cherished memories and current indifference. Furthermore, the poet’s use of the term “muertas ya” meaning “already dead,” to describe the hope and faith in the relationship, underscores the irreversible nature of their emotional disconnect. The lyrical journey from passionate nostalgia to sorrowful realization is echoed in the imagery of faded sunlight and mocking shadows of the past.
“Como dos extraños” was recorded on July 7, 1960, a period rich in the evolution of Argentine Tango. Post-World War II, tango lyrics had transitioned from predominantly urban tales of ordinary life to more introspective and emotionally complex themes. The notable shift in tone and content in tangos from the Golden Age,20’s-50’s reflects a society grappling with rapid changes. This tango, with its themes of estrangement and the relentless passage of time, captures a universal, timeless quality, resonant with audiences then and now, highlighting a collective understanding of love’s temporality and the pain of its demise.
José María Contursi was a significant lyricist in the history of tango, known for infusing his compositions with deep emotional resonance and complexity.