A Flor De Bombo

Los Chalchaleros' song 'A Flor De Bombo' is a poignant tribute to the bombo legüero, a traditional Argentine drum, and its deep connection to the cultural and emotional landscape of Santiago del Estero. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the ceibo tree, whose wood is used to craft the bombo. The tree's life is cut short, symbolizing the sacrifices made to create something that carries the spirit and history of the region. The imagery of the tree's shadow no longer being present evokes a sense of loss and reverence for the natural world that provides the materials for this musical instrument.

The song delves into the process of transforming the ceibo wood into a bombo, highlighting the tender care and craftsmanship involved. The 'tierna madera' (tender wood) and 'savia vegetal' (plant sap) suggest a nurturing relationship between the tree and the drum, as if the tree's essence is preserved and honored through the music it helps create. The 'parches curtidos' (cured drumheads) embracing the wood further emphasize this connection, as the drum becomes a vessel for the region's musical traditions.

In the chorus, the bombo's vibrations are described as a conduit for the singer's emotions, particularly through the zambas and chacareras, traditional Argentine folk dances. The bombo legüero is not just an instrument but a companion in expressing the joys and sorrows of life. The final verse contemplates the inevitability of separation and the hope for a better world, suggesting that the music and the bombo will continue to bridge the gap between the earthly and the divine, offering solace and connection even in times of loss.