A Palma de Bimba

The song 'A Palma de Bimba' by Associação Capoeira Lagoa Azul is a tribute to Mestre Bimba, a legendary figure in the world of Capoeira. Mestre Bimba, whose real name was Manoel dos Reis Machado, is credited with formalizing Capoeira Regional, a style of Capoeira that emphasizes discipline, technique, and a structured approach to the martial art. The lyrics of the song reflect this emphasis on precision and correctness, as they repeatedly mention the need to get the 'palma' (clap) right, following the rhythm of 'um, dois, tres' (one, two, three).

The repetition of the phrase 'A palma de bimba e um, dois, tres' serves as a metaphor for the importance of rhythm and timing in Capoeira. The song highlights various aspects of Capoeira practice, such as the 'quadra' (a type of song), 'iuna' (a bird and also a type of Capoeira game), and 'ginga' (the fundamental movement in Capoeira). Each of these elements must be performed correctly, and the song suggests that Mestre Bimba would stop the practice if any part was done incorrectly. This reflects the high standards and the rigorous training that Mestre Bimba instilled in his students.

The song also touches on the spiritual and communal aspects of Capoeira. It mentions that if you are a 'devoto de bimba' (devotee of Bimba), he will help you in the 'roda' (the circle where Capoeira is practiced). This line underscores the sense of community and mutual support that is central to Capoeira. However, it also warns that if you are not committed, you should leave the roda, as it can be a challenging and intense environment. This duality of support and challenge is a key aspect of Capoeira culture, where practitioners are encouraged to push their limits while also supporting each other.

Overall, 'A Palma de Bimba' is a rich and layered song that encapsulates the discipline, rhythm, and community spirit of Capoeira. It serves as both a tribute to Mestre Bimba and a reminder of the high standards he set for his students.