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 maleva is a Tango written by Mario Pardo and composed by Antonio Buglione.
“La maleva” tells the tale of a woman who returns to her roots after experiencing a lavish yet hollow life. She is a figure of repentance and reform, symbolizing a journey back from the glamorous allurements of the “Pigall,” a reference to lavish, possibly decadent environments. The lyrics express her transition from a life centered on luxury and pleasure to embracing her original, simpler existence, reconnecting with her genuine identity stripped of artificialities.
The title “La maleva” itself suggests a tough, street-smart woman, as “maleva” translates to someone tough or a troublemaker in Argentine slang. This symbolism contrasts with her eventual gentle return to a modest life. The transition in her lifestyle encapsulates a dramatic change where she rejects the superficial appeals of “copetines” (cocktails), tangos, and the bandoneón, signifying a broader rejection of the life she once led. The embrace of a mundane life over the previous thrill-seeking one speaks volumes about the deeper moral reawakening she experiences.
A poignant phrase in the lyrics, “tendió su manto de armiño para abrigarte mejor,” symbolizes protection and warmth, unifying the themes of forgiveness and rebirth. Here, the “ermine cape” metaphorically represents the comforting and respectful reception she receives upon returning to her community, signifying acceptance and a return to self-esteem.
The tango “La maleva” was recorded in 1949, a period of great cultural vibrancy but also social challenge in Argentina. Coming after World War II, this time in Argentina was marked by significant political and social changes. Tango music often reflected the sentiments of the working class and common people during such transformative periods. The storytelling in this Tango emphasizes themes of redemption and returning to one’s roots, which could resonate deeply with an audience experiencing the push and pull of old traditions and new realities in post-war Argentina.
Mario Pardo was a noteworthy figure in the Argentine tango scene, known for his deep and evocative lyrics that often explored themes of love, culture, and human conditions.