Catedrales

La Maravillosa Orquesta Del Alcohol's song 'Catedrales' is a poignant exploration of nostalgia, rebellion, and the passage of time. The lyrics open with a reference to Nick Drake, a musician known for his melancholic and introspective songs, setting a reflective tone. The mention of wrinkles turning into cracks suggests the inevitable aging process and the deepening of life's experiences and scars. This imagery is powerful, evoking a sense of vulnerability and the passage of time.

The song continues with a nod to 'Sunday hymns' and 'heroes of any generation,' which can be interpreted as a reflection on the loss of youthful rebellion and the search for meaning in a conformist world. The line 'Is the beach still under the cobblestone?' is a direct reference to the famous May 1968 protests in France, where students and workers sought to uncover a more idyllic and free existence beneath the rigid structures of society. This question encapsulates the longing for a return to simpler, more genuine times.

As the song progresses, it delves into themes of disillusionment and the struggle to hold onto dreams. The advice 'Never give up' is juxtaposed with the cynicism that often accompanies adulthood. The imagery of snow falling both outside and inside, like the Lumière brothers' obsession with capturing moments, underscores the fleeting nature of time and memories. The chorus invites listeners to 'relive reality' even as dreams slip away, and the pain is likened to the piercing needles of a cathedral, symbolizing both beauty and suffering. The song concludes with a toast to the storm and an acknowledgment of the unknown future, finding peace in the present moment as everything falls into place like pieces in a crystal puzzle.