Zé Matuto

The song 'Zé Matuto' by Calango Aceso is a humorous and satirical commentary on the clash between traditional values and modernity. The protagonist, Zé Matuto, is a stereotypical rural man who ventures to the beach, a place that symbolizes modernity and urban culture. His shock and discomfort upon seeing women in revealing swimwear, referred to as 'rabichola,' highlight his naivety and the cultural gap between his traditional background and the contemporary world he encounters.

The lyrics cleverly use wordplay and repetition to emphasize Zé Matuto's bewilderment. The phrase 'matutou matutou' suggests deep contemplation, yet his solution is to write to Clodovil, a famous Brazilian fashion designer and TV personality known for his flamboyant style and outspoken nature. Clodovil's response, criticizing Zé Matuto's views as 'atraso do Brasil' (a setback for Brazil), underscores the tension between progressive and conservative perspectives in Brazilian society.

The recurring imagery of the 'tanga' (bikini) and its variations ('minitanga,' 'piquitinha') serves as a metaphor for the changing norms and the liberation of personal expression. The line 'deixa a tanga voar' (let the bikini fly) symbolizes the freedom and fluidity of modern fashion and attitudes, contrasting sharply with Zé Matuto's rigid, old-fashioned mindset. Through its playful and ironic tone, the song invites listeners to reflect on the evolving cultural landscape and the sometimes humorous, sometimes poignant, intersections of tradition and modernity.