Cumbia China

Os Resentidos' song 'Cumbia China' delves into the gritty and often overlooked parts of urban life, specifically focusing on the 'barrio chino' or 'Chinatown' that exists in many cities. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of these neighborhoods, characterized by illicit activities and a sense of decay. The repeated mention of 'venéreo contrabando' (venereal smuggling) and 'miseria preservativa' (preservative misery) highlights the darker aspects of these areas, where love is urgent and fleeting, and the streets are filled with high heels and tattoos. This imagery evokes a sense of desperation and survival, where people navigate through the complexities of urban existence.

The chorus, with its repetitive chant of 'Cali, chocholina, lichoca, cacholi,' adds a rhythmic and almost hypnotic quality to the song, reflecting the chaotic and pulsating life in these neighborhoods. The mention of specific bars and places like 'bar Calipso' and 'bar Cacholi' grounds the song in a tangible reality, making it relatable to those familiar with such locales. The reference to 'Vigo,' a city in Spain, and its connection to 'Shangai' through the phrase 'irmanamento Vigo e Shangai' (twinning of Vigo and Shanghai) suggests a cultural and economic link between these distant places, further emphasizing the global nature of urban struggles.

The song also touches on historical and political themes with the lines 'Será de Mao, de Chan Kai Chei' (Will it be Mao, or Chiang Kai-shek), hinting at the complex and often tumultuous history of China. This adds another layer of depth to the song, suggesting that the issues faced in these 'barrio chinos' are not just local but are part of a larger, global narrative. 'Cumbia China' by Os Resentidos is a powerful exploration of urban life, filled with rich imagery and cultural references that resonate with listeners on multiple levels.