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 tigre de Almagro is a Tango written by Enrique Cantore and composed by Carlos Lázzari.
El tigre de Almagro tells a poignant story set in a bustling Argentine barrio, Almagro. The lyrics depict a dramatic scene where the central character, known as “El Tigre de Almagro,” stands surrounded by onlookers after a duel that leaves a man dying. This scene starkly encapsulates themes of revenge, honor, and the harsh realities of brutality. The emotional depth here is underscored by a reflective and remorseful tone, as El Tigre explains the reasons behind his actions – a mix of personal vendetta and a cry for respect, shaped by past betrayals and time spent in prison (“la sombra”).
The nickname “El Tigre” symbolizes not only the character’s feared and fierce reputation but also the survival instincts that are necessary in the harsh societal underbelly of mid-20th century Argentina. The recurring focus on the eyes (“su vista paseó”) reflects the notion of witness—both as onlooker and as bearer of one’s life actions. Phrases like “No miren con miedo” and “Buscaba el desquite,” suggest a defiance against being judged, while also acknowledging the deep scars left by past injustices.
Recorded in 1962, a period marked by political and social upheaval in Argentina, “El tigre de Almagro” reflects societal themes of justice and retribution that resonate within the community’s collective consciousness. Almagro, a neighborhood in Buenos Aires, is depicted not just as a physical locale but as a living, breathing entity that plays a silent witness to the morality play unfolding within its borders. The historical significance of tango as a reflection of the working class and its struggles is profoundly depicted in this narrative, capturing the ethos and pathos of the time.
Enrique Cantore was an Argentinian lyricist known for his contributions to the Tango genre, capturing the spirit and tumults of Argentine life through his poignant lyrics.