Ellos

The song 'Ellos' by Salta La Banca is a powerful critique of systemic oppression and social injustice. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the struggles faced by the marginalized and the poor, highlighting the failures of capitalism and the state's repressive apparatus. The opening lines, 'Se cae el capitalismo, Y si la olla se revienta, Se les viene un problemón,' suggest an impending collapse of the capitalist system, which would create significant problems for those in power. The song criticizes the criminalization of poverty as a means to control and stigmatize the underprivileged, rather than addressing the root causes of inequality.

The chorus, 'Ellos, que soportan como tú, Canalizan con nosotros Como lo han hecho con él,' emphasizes solidarity among the oppressed, suggesting that the struggles of one are shared by many. The song also points out the hypocrisy of those who claim to represent the people but fail to address their needs, as seen in the lines, 'Si vosotros representarais al pueblo No estaría, entonces, Yo disparando la canción.' This highlights the disconnect between the ruling class and the common people, and the need for genuine representation and action.

The song further delves into the harsh realities of state violence and repression, with lines like 'Hay violencia y mano dura. No hay justicia ni en pintura. Pero todo va genial.' This starkly contrasts the official narrative of progress and order with the lived experiences of brutality and injustice. The reference to 'neo-torturador' and 'la vieja metodología Del centro de detención' connects contemporary state violence to historical practices of torture and repression, suggesting a continuity of oppressive tactics. The closing lines, 'Contame, ¿qué se siente Llenar pancitas vacías Con el frío del fusil?' poignantly question the morality of using violence to maintain control, highlighting the human cost of such actions.

Overall, 'Ellos' is a poignant and powerful song that calls for awareness, solidarity, and action against systemic oppression and social injustice. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by the marginalized and the need for genuine change.