Once
Babasónicos
A Surreal Journey Through the Absurd: Babasónicos' 'Once'
Babasónicos' song 'Once' is a surreal and vivid narrative that takes the listener on a journey through a series of bizarre and disjointed events. The lyrics paint a picture of a protagonist who wakes up naked on a street, encounters a 'yanki' girl, and enters a medieval-themed place. The imagery is rich and chaotic, with scenes of stepping on a beggar, negotiating kif for weapons, and attending a funeral where the widow's expression morphs into a relative's face. This dreamlike sequence of events suggests a commentary on the absurdity and unpredictability of life.
The song's chorus, 'trae a casa mi rock'n'roll' (bring my rock'n'roll home), serves as a grounding refrain amidst the chaos. It implies a longing for something familiar and comforting in the midst of confusion and disarray. The mention of a tribe of orthodox messianists ambushing the protagonist and chanting his name adds a layer of mysticism and religious fervor to the narrative. This could symbolize the pressures and expectations placed on individuals by society or a search for identity and belonging.
The final lines, 'chicos y chicas bailan en el funeral del rock' (boys and girls dance at the funeral of rock), suggest a paradoxical celebration of the end of an era. It reflects on the cyclical nature of cultural movements and the inevitable transformation of traditions. Babasónicos, known for their eclectic and experimental style, use 'Once' to explore themes of absurdity, identity, and the passage of time, all while maintaining a sense of playful irreverence and rock'n'roll spirit.