Pastel

Bardero$, an Argentine rap group, delves into the raw and unfiltered aspects of street life in their song 'Pastel.' The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world dominated by drugs, crime, and the constant hustle for money. The recurring line 'Traigo pastel, puta, traigo pastel' (I bring cake, bitch, I bring cake) serves as a metaphor for bringing drugs to the table, highlighting the central role that narcotics play in this lifestyle. The imagery of 'droga arriba de la mesa, humo por el hotel' (drugs on the table, smoke through the hotel) further emphasizes the omnipresence of substance abuse and its impact on their daily lives.

The song also touches on themes of loyalty and survival. Lines like 'Mis chicos tirando tu puerta, tu puta de oferta' (My boys knocking on your door, your bitch on offer) and 'Mis negros están tras las celdas' (My boys are behind bars) reflect the harsh realities of living in a world where crime is a means of survival. The mention of 'cuatro noches sin dormir, cobrando mi caché' (four nights without sleep, collecting my fee) underscores the relentless grind and the sacrifices made to earn a living in this environment.

Cultural references are abundant, with nods to the West Coast rap scene and the use of local slang and locations like 'Cutral Co' and 'Neuquén.' These elements ground the song in its Argentine context, making it a powerful commentary on the socio-economic conditions that drive individuals into a life of crime. The closing lines, 'Por mi gente, por mi mamá, Mi hermano y los delincuentes' (For my people, for my mom, my brother, and the delinquents), reveal a sense of community and familial loyalty, even amidst the chaos and danger of street life.