Carvão, Enxofre e Salitre

Matanza's song 'Carvão, Enxofre e Salitre' is a raw and powerful anthem of rebellion and defiance. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of outlaws who live on the fringes of society, constantly pursued by authorities but never subdued. The song opens with a declaration of the fear and condemnation they face from judges and law enforcement, highlighting the systemic oppression they endure. This sets the stage for a narrative of resistance and survival against all odds.

The chorus metaphorically describes the outlaws as 'carvão, enxofre e salitre' (charcoal, sulfur, and saltpeter), elements that, when combined, create gunpowder. This imagery underscores their explosive potential and the inherent danger they pose to the established order. The lyrics emphasize their unity and resilience, suggesting that no prison can hold them, no saint can forgive them, and no devil can tolerate them. This defiance is further illustrated by their actions—robbing banks, destroying property, and causing chaos—symbolizing a broader struggle against societal constraints and injustices.

The song also delves into the psychological and existential aspects of their lives. The fugitives are depicted as having no routine, no safe place, and a heightened awareness born from their constant fight for survival. The repeated references to 'dirty hands' and 'dirty water' that cannot be cleansed or absolved reflect a deep sense of guilt and irredeemability. Yet, this acknowledgment of their 'dirty' nature is embraced rather than shunned, reinforcing their identity as rebels who reject societal norms and moral judgments. The song's relentless energy and dark, gritty tone capture the essence of a life lived on the edge, where every moment is a battle and every action a statement of defiance.