Almejas

The song 'Almejas' by El Cuarteto de Nos tells the story of a family's entrepreneurial journey, marked by initial success and eventual downfall due to external economic factors. The narrative begins with José María and María José, who marry and have two children, María and José. The children, upon reaching adulthood, move to the capital and start a successful bait shop, specializing in clams (almejas), which becomes popular among local fishermen. The business thrives, and their clams are in high demand, symbolizing the fruits of hard work and the potential for prosperity through small business ownership.

However, the song takes a turn as Brazilian clams enter the market, benefiting from lower tariffs due to trade agreements like Mercosur. The competition drives down prices, making it impossible for the family's business to compete. This shift reflects the challenges small businesses face when confronted with globalization and the impact of international trade policies on local economies. The family's bait shop is forced to close, illustrating the vulnerability of small enterprises to larger economic forces beyond their control.

El Cuarteto de Nos, a band known for their satirical and often socially critical lyrics, uses the story of 'Almejas' to comment on the broader themes of economic hardship, the struggles of the working class, and the effects of globalization. The song's catchy chorus and playful tone contrast with the serious message, inviting listeners to reflect on the complexities of economic survival in a globalized world.