El Vertedero de Sao Paulo

Astrud's song 'El Vertedero de Sao Paulo' presents a vivid and somewhat surreal depiction of a landfill in São Paulo, Brazil. The lyrics list an eclectic mix of discarded items, ranging from copies of the Catalan Bible to evaluation copies of Windows Vista, and even liters of AB negative blood plasma. This bizarre inventory of waste serves to highlight the absurdity and excess of modern consumer culture. By naming specific and often valuable or unusual items, the song underscores the sheer volume and variety of what society discards, prompting listeners to reflect on their own consumption and waste habits.

The repeated assertion that 'El vertedero de Sao Paulo no es una metáfora' (The landfill of São Paulo is not a metaphor) emphasizes the literal existence of such a place, grounding the song's surreal elements in a stark reality. This insistence serves to remind listeners that the environmental and social issues associated with waste are very real and pressing. The landfill becomes a symbol of the broader environmental crisis, where valuable resources and potentially hazardous materials are carelessly thrown away, reflecting a lack of foresight and responsibility.

Astrud's choice to include references to specific cultural items, such as 'fotos de Natalia de Operación Triunfo,' adds a layer of cultural critique. These references anchor the song in a specific time and place, making the critique of wastefulness more immediate and personal. The song's playful yet pointed tone invites listeners to consider the cultural and environmental implications of their actions, making 'El Vertedero de Sao Paulo' a thought-provoking commentary on modern life and its excesses.