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 trece is a Tango written by Angel Gregorio Villoldo and composed by Albérico Spátola.
The lyrics of “El trece” dive deep into the emotional core of tango, capturing the essence of the dance as not just movement but a passionate, emotional experience. The protagonist describes the dance as a deeply enjoyable act, filled with dreams and sensations that stir the heart. The term “dormilón” typically translates to sleepy or dozy, suggesting a smooth, flowing motion, akin to a gentle lull, which carries the dancer through pain (“con dolor”), likely referring to the emotional or physical strains that vanish in the act of dancing.
The text reflects a personal journey, where dancing tango acts as an elixir that soothes and exhilarates, particularly identifying with “El Trece”, likely a popular style or step of tango known for its indulgent, pleasurable characteristics.
The repeated references to emotional and physical sensibilities (“gozar, soñar, vivir, sentir”) emphasize tango as not merely a dance but a conduit for broader human experiences. The phrase “las vibraciones del corazón” symbolizes the profound connection between the music, movement, and one’s deepest emotions. “El Trece” itself, translating to “The Thirteen” in English, may symbolize a peculiarity or a unique attribute in Tango; an element of mystery or luck commonly associated with the number thirteen.
The dance described as “dormilón” and the scenes of embracing “the arms of my beloved” encapsulate a romantic, almost trance-like state elicited by Tango, portraying it as a therapeutic escape, defining one’s personal and cultural identity.
Written and recorded in 1943 Argentina, “El trece” emerges from a vibrant period in Tango history, where the dance and its music were intrinsic to Argentine culture, expressing not just artistic but social and political nuances of the time. During this era, Tango was transitioning, becoming more reflective and complex, mirroring the societal changes caused by global events like World War II. This context might be why the song deeply emphasizes emotional relief and patriotic subtleties (“cuando bailo con un criollo”), highlighting a return to local authenticity and traditional roots in challenging times.
Angel Gregorio Villoldo was an Argentine musician, often hailed as one of the pioneering figures in the development of Tango.