Plata o Plomo

Brujeria's song 'Plata o Plomo' delves into the harsh realities of the drug trade, a world where choices are often limited to life or death. The title itself, translating to 'Silver or Lead,' is a phrase famously attributed to drug lords, particularly Pablo Escobar, who used it to coerce cooperation: take the bribe (silver) or face the bullet (lead). This binary choice underscores the brutal and unforgiving nature of the criminal underworld.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the stakes involved. The opening lines describe the discovery of decapitated bodies, setting a grim tone. The song then transitions into a recruitment pitch, albeit a sinister one, where the 'salary' is metal—either the silver of money or the lead of bullets. This metaphor highlights the perilous nature of the work, where failure or disobedience is met with deadly consequences. The repeated refrain of 'Plata! O plomo!' serves as a chilling reminder of the ever-present danger.

Brujeria, known for their extreme metal style and provocative themes, uses this song to critique and expose the violent realities of the drug trade. The lyrics are raw and unfiltered, reflecting the band's commitment to addressing controversial and dark subjects. The song's aggressive tone and relentless pace mirror the chaotic and dangerous life it describes, making it a powerful commentary on the choices faced by those entangled in this world.

The song also touches on the illusion of choice within this environment. The lines 'Quieres ser un player, o ser rata callejero' (Do you want to be a player, or a street rat?) and 'Con plata seras rey, con plomo... Muerto wey' (With silver, you'll be a king; with lead... dead, dude) emphasize that the options are stark and unforgiving. This dichotomy reflects the broader societal issues of poverty, lack of opportunity, and the allure of quick wealth, which often drive individuals into such dangerous paths.