Oi-Oi!!
La Polla Records
A Defiant Anthem of Basque Identity
La Polla Records' song "Oi-Oi!!" is a powerful declaration of Basque identity and resistance against Spanish oppression. The lyrics, written in a mix of Basque and Spanish, reflect the band's punk ethos and their commitment to social and political issues. The song opens with the assertion of the singer's Basque heritage, contrasting it with the perceived advantages of others. This sets the stage for a narrative of defiance and resilience.
The recurring line "ni ez nauk espainola" (I am not Spanish) serves as a bold statement of cultural and national identity. The lyrics mention historical grievances, such as the colonization of Basque lands and the suppression of the Basque language. The reference to "tortura demokratikoakin" (democratic torture) and the prohibition of the Basque language highlights the ongoing struggle for cultural preservation and autonomy. The song's aggressive tone and imagery, such as "buru gogorrei burua moztu" (cut off the heads of the hard-headed), underscore the intensity of this resistance.
La Polla Records also critiques the complicity of some Basques who have aligned with Spanish interests, referring to them as "zipaioak" (collaborators). The mention of "berrogei urtetan 'cara al sol'" (forty years of 'face to the sun') alludes to the Francoist regime and its lasting impact on Spanish society. The song's closing lines reiterate the unyielding nature of Basque identity, with "buru gogor beti gogor" (hard-headed always hard). Through "Oi-Oi!!", La Polla Records delivers a raw and unapologetic message of resistance, cultural pride, and the enduring spirit of the Basque people.