KULTRUN

Edgardo Lanfré's song 'KULTRUN' is a profound homage to the Mapuche culture, deeply rooted in the traditions and spiritual practices of this indigenous community from southern Chile and Argentina. The kultrun, a ceremonial drum, is central to the song's narrative, symbolizing the heartbeat of the Mapuche people and their connection to the earth and their ancestors. The lyrics express a desire to create a kultrun from a piece of lenga wood, a tree native to the region, emphasizing the importance of using materials that are both locally sourced and spiritually significant.

The song's imagery is rich with cultural references. The kultrun is described as a 'caja ahuecada y pequeña' (a small hollowed-out box) with a 'parche estirado con tientos' (a stretched hide), typically made from mare's leather. This meticulous description highlights the craftsmanship and reverence involved in making the instrument. The kultrun is not just a musical instrument but a sacred object that carries the voices of the machis, the Mapuche shamans, and connects the people to the 'vientre de la tierra' (womb of the earth).

Lanfré's lyrics also touch on the spiritual and communal aspects of the Mapuche culture. The act of painting ostrich legs on the drum's hide and praying for both the elders and the youth of the community signifies a deep respect for tradition and the continuity of cultural practices. The song culminates in a powerful expression of identity and pride, as the singer feels his blood 'arde' (burns) when dancing the loncomeo, a traditional Mapuche dance. Through 'KULTRUN,' Lanfré not only preserves but also celebrates the enduring spirit and resilience of the Mapuche people.