Series de Maderos

La Polla Records, a seminal punk band from Spain, is known for their provocative and politically charged lyrics. 'Series de Maderos' is no exception, offering a biting satire on the aspirations and realities of becoming a police officer. The song juxtaposes the glorified image of police work often portrayed in media with the more corrupt and violent aspects of the profession.

The lyrics begin with a stark contrast: 'En tu casa series de maderos, en la calle maderos de verdad,' which translates to 'At home, series about cops; on the street, real cops.' This sets the stage for the song's central theme, highlighting the disparity between the idealized version of police officers seen on TV and the often harsh and corrupt reality. The repeated line 'Poli, mama yo quiero ser poli' ('Mom, I want to be a cop') is delivered with a sense of irony, as the singer lists various unethical and violent behaviors he aspires to engage in as a police officer.

The song delves into specific corrupt practices, such as accepting bribes, abusing detainees, and engaging in extrajudicial activities. Lines like 'Aceptar el soborno sin comerme la cabeza' ('Accepting bribes without a second thought') and 'sacarme un sobresueldo de maton de discoteca' ('earning extra money as a nightclub bouncer') paint a grim picture of the moral decay within the police force. The chorus, 'Mama duerme tranquila, sere buen policia' ('Mom, sleep peacefully, I will be a good cop'), is laden with sarcasm, emphasizing the dissonance between the public's perception of police officers and the reality of their actions.

La Polla Records uses 'Series de Maderos' to critique not only the police force but also the societal structures that allow such corruption to flourish. The song serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of accountability and integrity in law enforcement, urging listeners to question the systems in place and the individuals who operate within them.