Barrio Bajo
Tren Loco
The Gritty Reality of 'Barrio Bajo' by Tren Loco
Tren Loco's song 'Barrio Bajo' paints a vivid and raw picture of life in a lower-class neighborhood, often referred to as a 'barrio bajo' in Spanish. The lyrics are a nostalgic yet unflinching portrayal of the artist's memories and experiences growing up in such an environment. The repetition of 'as' (like this) emphasizes the authenticity and personal connection the artist has with these memories, suggesting that this is not just a story but a lived reality.
The song opens with a scene of men drinking beer in the barrio, stepping over puddles and broken glass, which immediately sets a gritty and rough tone. The mention of 'la trocha angosta de un tren que no viene' (the narrow gauge of a train that doesn't come) symbolizes stagnation and the lack of progress or escape for the residents. The 'esquizofrenia de los perros sueltos' (schizophrenia of the stray dogs) adds to the chaotic and unstable atmosphere of the neighborhood.
Cultural references to figures like Gardel, Evita, and Perón ground the song in Argentine history and culture, highlighting the deep roots and complex social fabric of the barrio. The imagery of 'las putas del