Quebra jereba

The song 'Quebra jereba' by Grupo Capoeira Angola is a vibrant celebration of the cultural and spiritual essence of capoeira, a Brazilian martial art that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music. The lyrics are rich with metaphors and imagery that evoke the powerful forces of nature, such as strong winds and hurricanes, which are likened to the dynamic and energetic movements of capoeira. The repetition of 'vento forte' (strong wind) underscores the unstoppable and resilient spirit of the capoeirista, who channels the energy of the wind into their art form.

The phrase 'quebra jereba' can be interpreted as a call to break free or to unleash one's full potential. This is reinforced by the imagery of the wind filling the sails of a boat, propelling it forward on an unpredictable journey. The fisherman, who ventures out to sea without knowing when he will return, symbolizes the capoeirista's commitment to their craft, embracing the uncertainty and challenges that come with it. The song suggests that in the face of adversity, one must remain steadfast and resilient, much like the fisherman and the capoeirista.

Furthermore, the song touches on the spiritual aspect of capoeira, with references to 'barravento' and 'when the saint takes hold.' This alludes to the Afro-Brazilian religious traditions that are deeply intertwined with capoeira, where the roda (circle) becomes a sacred space for expression and connection. The line 'when the roda is good, there is no time to end' highlights the timeless and transcendent nature of capoeira, where practitioners lose themselves in the rhythm and flow of the game. 'Quebra jereba' is a powerful anthem that encapsulates the essence of capoeira, celebrating its physical, cultural, and spiritual dimensions.