Abran Cancha

Alberto Mastra's song "Abran Cancha" is a poignant narrative that personifies the milonga, a traditional Argentine dance, as a woman who experiences love, betrayal, and redemption. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the milonga's journey, starting from her origins in the humble arrabal (working-class neighborhood) where she is cherished and adored. The milonga is depicted as the embodiment of the tango's spirit, full of passion and melancholy, captivating those who witness her dance.

The story takes a dramatic turn when a foreigner arrives and seduces the milonga, leading her away from her roots. This outsider introduces her to a new style, blending her traditional moves with the foxtrot, a dance that symbolizes modernity and change. The milonga's departure from her origins is marked by a sense of loss and betrayal, as she abandons the tango, represented as a loyal lover, for the allure of something new and exotic. This shift is not just a personal betrayal but also a cultural one, as the milonga's departure signifies a move away from the traditional values and rhythms of the arrabal.

However, the story comes full circle when the milonga realizes her mistake. The return of the tango, now more glorious and celebrated than ever, brings about a sense of regret and longing in the milonga. She returns to the arrabal, seeking redemption and a reconnection with her roots. This narrative is rich with metaphors, using the dance to explore themes of love, betrayal, cultural identity, and the tension between tradition and modernity. Mastra's lyrics are a tribute to the enduring power of the tango and the milonga, celebrating their resilience and timeless appeal.