Blues de La Artillería

Patricio Rey y Sus Redonditos de Ricota, a seminal Argentine rock band, often delved into themes of societal critique and existential musings. 'Blues de La Artillería' is no exception, offering a sharp commentary on the superficiality and pretensions of a certain social class. The song's protagonist is depicted as the 'ace of Club Paris,' a metaphorical figure who embodies the hollow glamour and false aristocracy of the nightlife scene. The repeated line 'lo tuyo no es el rock' suggests that the protagonist is out of place, trying to fit into a world that doesn't truly belong to them.

The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person who is constantly on the move, closing bars wherever they go, yet never finding true satisfaction or rest. The mention of 'tu breto y tus ojos grises' (your beret and your grey eyes) adds a layer of visual imagery, emphasizing the character's attempt to maintain a certain image. The song questions the protagonist's choices, hinting that they should have pursued a more grounded dream, like opening a restaurant, instead of chasing an elusive and ultimately unfulfilling lifestyle.

The recurring question, '¿cabe todo lo tuyo en una maldita valija?' (does all your stuff fit in a damn suitcase?), serves as a powerful metaphor for the emptiness of materialism and the transient nature of their pursuits. The song also touches on the idea of a 'líder dealer sin freno' (an unstoppable leader-dealer), suggesting a life driven by excess and superficial success. The final lines, 'Si tu moneda hablara' (if your coin could talk), imply that the protagonist's wealth and status are built on shaky foundations, hinting at hidden truths and unspoken stories. Through its rich metaphors and poignant questions, 'Blues de La Artillería' critiques the facade of aristocracy and the emptiness that often lies beneath it.