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.
La calesita is a Tango written by Cátulo Castillo and composed by Mariano Mores.
“La calesita,” meaning “The Carousel” in English, evokes poignant emotions and memories with its lyrical narrative. The song nostalgically recalls a carousel at a shadowy street corner, symbolically representing a place where once joyous memories have now tarnished. Themes of nostalgia, loss, and longing permeate the lyrics, focusing on youthful love and the passage of time that has since turned vibrant moments into faded memories.
The central metaphor of the carousel serves as a powerful symbol of the cyclical nature of life and memories. It spins, mirroring the repetitive cycles of joy and sorrow, conjuring images of youthful experiences and lost love. Phrases like “llora la calesita” (the carousel cries) and “y hace sangrar las cosas que fueron rosas un día” (and makes bleed the things that were once roses) poignantly emphasize how vibrant past has withered into painful memories. “Carancanfún,” an onomatopoeic expression, adds a playful yet melancholic tone, underscoring how memories can invoke both the jocund spirit of the past while reminding us of its irrevocable loss.
Written and recorded in 1957 in Argentina, “La calesita” emerged during a period marked by political and social upheaval. This context may reflect the song’s underlying tone of melancholy and reflection on better times, implying a collective longing for a past era amidst societal changes. The mention of “Balvanera,” a neighborhood in Buenos Aires known for its rich cultural heritage and as a melting pot, adds depth, as it may connect listeners with the locality’s historical significance, reflecting the social and emotional landscape of the Argentine populace during that period.
Cátulo Castillo was a prominent Argentine tango lyricist and director, known for his impactful contributions to the tango genre. His lyrics often centered around themes of nostalgia, love, and social commentary, making significant impacts in the cultural landscape of Argentina.