Sangre Maleva (part. Oscar Larroca)

Alfredo de Angelis' song 'Sangre Maleva,' featuring Oscar Larroca, is a poignant narrative set in the gritty neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, such as La Boca, Avellaneda, and Barracas. The song tells the story of Cruz Medina, a respected and noble figure in the local underworld. Medina is portrayed as a man of integrity and bravery, someone who commands respect not through deceit or connections but through his own actions and character. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the urban landscape and the rough life Medina led, emphasizing his honorable nature and the respect he garnered from his peers.

The song takes a dramatic turn when it recounts the night Medina was fatally wounded in Avellaneda. Despite being mortally injured, Medina refuses to betray his principles by revealing the identity of his assailant to the police. His final words underscore his unwavering commitment to his code of honor, stating that a true man does not become an informant. This moment highlights the themes of loyalty, honor, and the harsh realities of life in the barrios, where personal codes of conduct often dictate one's actions more than the law does.

'Sangre Maleva' is not just a story of individual heroism but also a reflection on the cultural values of the time and place it describes. The song captures the essence of a bygone era in Buenos Aires, where figures like Cruz Medina were both feared and revered. Through its evocative lyrics and melancholic bandoneón, the song immerses the listener in the world of the arrabal, making it a powerful tribute to the complex and often tragic lives of its inhabitants.