Viejo Ciego (feat. Roberto Videla)

Ricardo Tanturi y Su Orquesta Típica's song 'Viejo Ciego,' featuring Roberto Videla, is a poignant tango that delves into themes of nostalgia, loss, and the passage of time. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of an old, blind musician who frequents a bar, bringing with him the melancholic strains of his violin. His presence, described as a 'rare silhouette of a skinny nag,' evokes a sense of ghostliness and timelessness, as if he is a relic from a bygone era.

The song's narrative is rich with imagery and emotion. The old musician, accompanied by his guide dog, plays his 'eternal song,' stirring up old memories and a touch of sadness in the hearts of the bar's patrons. The lyrics suggest that his music is a conduit for the collective memory of the community, blending sorrow with the solace found in alcohol. The line 'Pones en las almas recuerdos añejos y un poco de pena mezclas al alcohol' encapsulates this idea, highlighting how his music intertwines with the patrons' emotions and experiences.

As the song progresses, it contemplates the inevitable end of the musician's life and the impact his absence will have. The imagery of 'smoke crepes' and 'mysterious seals on dirty cards' symbolizes the void his departure will leave. The song also reflects on the transient nature of life and art, with the retired bards singing a simple song for his funeral, devoid of false sentiment. The final verses bring a personal touch, as the narrator recalls a past love, asking the old musician to play a slow, sad tango to evoke tears. This request underscores the deep emotional connection between the music and the listener's personal history.

'Viejo Ciego' is a masterful blend of narrative and emotion, capturing the essence of tango as a genre that speaks to the heart's deepest sorrows and longings. The song's exploration of memory, loss, and the passage of time resonates with listeners, making it a timeless piece in the world of tango music.