Un'altra Volta Ancora

Folkstone's 'Un'altra Volta Ancora' is a vivid portrayal of medieval revelry, blending themes of celebration, mortality, and the intoxicating effects of alcohol. The song opens with imagery of bagpipes and drums, setting the stage for a raucous gathering. The lyrics describe a scene where barrels are ready to be raided, and the air is thick with the scent of wine and spices, hinting at a feast that is both crude and exuberant. This setting serves as a backdrop for the song's deeper themes.

The chorus, with its repeated call to 'brindo un'altra volta ancora' (let's toast once more), juxtaposes the joy of drinking with the ever-present shadow of death. The line 'la morte è qua che mi sorvola' (death is here hovering over me) adds a macabre twist to the festivities, suggesting that the revelers are acutely aware of their mortality. This awareness doesn't dampen their spirits; instead, it fuels their desire to celebrate life even more fervently. The dance they partake in is described as 'macabra,' emphasizing the thin line between life and death that they tread.

As the song progresses, the arrival of the 'spezial' (apothecary) with his 'antico nettare' (ancient nectar) introduces an element of mysticism. This 'powerful antidote' could symbolize a temporary escape from the harsh realities of life, further enhancing the song's theme of seeking solace in revelry. The 'delirio alcolico' (alcoholic delirium) and 'fumose nebbie' (smoky mists) create a surreal atmosphere where people dance and sleep on sticky tavern counters, lost in their own worlds. Folkstone masterfully captures the essence of medieval tavern life, where joy and sorrow, life and death, are inextricably linked.