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.
El jaguar is a Tango written by Mario César Gomila and composed by Atilio Lombardo.
The tango “El jaguar” vividly encapsulates a narrative of profound personal transformation and redemption. It portrays the journey of an individual who feels abandoned by God and defeated by life’s harsh realities, metaphorically pushed into a corner by relentless adversity. The protagonist describes himself as totally broken down, likened to a “burro empacao” with his head hanging low, symbolizing utter defeat and loss of hope. However, a turning point comes when life, referred to as a grand teacher, forgives and educates him through experiences, eventually revealing that amidst immense pain was hidden a profound love—a powerful force that rejuvenated his spirit and pushed him towards change.
The use of intense and emotive language in “El jaguar” adds layers of meaning to the tango’s theme. The expressions “una ‘yeta’ feroz” (a fierce jinx) and “golpes fieros de la vida” (fierce blows of life) emphasize the severity of the protagonist’s misfortunes. The imagery associated with despair and resilience, particularly through metaphors such as being a burdened donkey, symbolizes a significant low point in life. Yet, the transformation is heralded with symbols of renewal and hope, such as “viento loco” (crazy wind), depicting love as a wild, revitalizing force that, despite its unpredictability, brings new directions and opportunities. The inclusion of family, a home, and a child highlights notions of stability, continuity, and the power of human connections in overcoming life’s obstacles.
In Argentina, the late 1960s was a period of significant social and political changes, reflected in the arts and particularly in tango music. Recorded in 1969, “El jaguar” emerged during a time when tango was both a reflection of the societal mood and an escape from harsh realities. The personal struggles and eventual recovery narrated in the lyrics resonate with the broader societal attempts to find grounding amid the turbulent socio-political landscape. The tango not only offers a personal story of overcoming adversity but also serves as a metaphor for the national spirit of resilience and hope during challenging times.
Mario César Gomila was an Argentine lyricist known for his contributions to the tango genre, capturing deep emotional and societal themes through his poignant lyricism.