Alta Suciedad

Andrés Calamaro's 'Alta Suciedad,' which translates to 'High Filthiness' or 'High Dirtiness,' is a song that delves into the themes of corruption, mistrust, and societal decay. The lyrics paint a picture of a world where integrity is scarce, and individuals are forced to navigate a landscape marred by moral compromise. Calamaro, an Argentine musician known for his rock and pop styles, often incorporates social commentary into his music, and 'Alta Suciedad' is a prime example of this.

The song begins with a metaphor of a champion boxer who is afraid to fight because he needs to sing, suggesting a conflict between survival and artistic expression. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the struggle artists face when dealing with the demands of commercial success versus their creative integrity. The 'high filthiness' mentioned in the chorus could be a reference to the upper echelons of society, where corruption and deceit are rampant, and trust is a commodity few can afford. The repetition of 'no se puede confiar en nadie más' (you can't trust anyone else) emphasizes the pervasive sense of betrayal and dishonesty.

Further into the song, Calamaro touches on themes of greed and exploitation, as seen in the verse about the banker and the friends who only want to 'fill the hole.' This speaks to the disillusionment with financial institutions and the superficiality of relationships based on self-interest. The song's gritty realism and its portrayal of a society where values are inverted—where the 'lowest' are at the top—resonate with listeners who have experienced or witnessed such societal issues.