Tabanquero

Los Delinqüentes' song "Tabanquero" is a vivid portrayal of a man grappling with the consequences of his excessive drinking. The lyrics open with the protagonist recounting a medical examination that reveals his sterility, a condition he attributes to his heavy alcohol consumption. This revelation is delivered with a touch of dark humor, as he mentions the absurdity of having his liver's X-ray results printed by a well-known sherry producer, González Byass. This sets the tone for the song, blending humor with the grim reality of his situation.

The chorus, a desperate plea to the 'tabanquero' (a bartender or wine seller), underscores the protagonist's dependence on alcohol. He asks for a drink, indifferent to the type of wine, and promises to pay when he gets his next paycheck. This reflects a cycle of addiction and financial instability, highlighting the character's struggle to find solace in alcohol despite its detrimental effects on his health and life. The repetition of the plea emphasizes his desperation and the central role that alcohol plays in his existence.

The song also touches on the social stigma and isolation that come with alcoholism. The protagonist mentions being considered 'dead in life' and having a 'litre of alcohol for every drop of blood,' painting a picture of someone who is both physically and socially marked by his addiction. The imagery of carrying a 'flammable' sign on his back further illustrates the danger and volatility of his condition. Through its candid and poignant lyrics, "Tabanquero" offers a raw look at the life of someone caught in the throes of addiction, using humor and vivid imagery to convey a powerful message about the human cost of alcoholism.