Trago Amargo (part. Alberto Echagüe)

In 'Trago Amargo,' Juan D'arienzo, featuring Alberto Echagüe, delves into the depths of heartache and the solace found in familial bonds. The song opens with a vivid scene of a son asking his mother to join him by the fire, a symbol of warmth and comfort. He requests her to prepare a bitter mate, a traditional South American drink, which metaphorically represents the bitterness he feels from a recent heartbreak. The imagery of the fire needing to be rekindled mirrors his own need for emotional warmth and support.

The lyrics then shift to a nostalgic reflection on a past love. The son reminisces about a woman who stole his heart, using the metaphor of a guitar's strings that have been kissed many times, now left dusty and unused. This guitar symbolizes his passion and love, now abandoned and neglected. The mention of a 'desalmada' (heartless woman) who took his 'gaucho heart' highlights the deep betrayal and sorrow he feels. The gaucho, a symbol of Argentine rural culture, represents his identity and pride, now wounded by this unfaithful love.

As the song progresses, the son expresses his desire to forget this painful love by drowning his sorrows in alcohol ('ahogandome en caña') and seeking comfort in his mother's presence. The final verses bring a sense of resignation and a plea for spiritual solace. He asks his mother to pray to the Virgin of the Abandoned and to place a black ribbon on his guitar, signifying mourning and the end of his romantic aspirations. This poignant conclusion underscores the themes of loss, longing, and the enduring bond between mother and son, offering a glimpse into the cultural and emotional landscape of Argentine tango music.