Lamento Mataco

The song 'Lamento Mataco' by Los Guaranies is a poignant narrative that tells the story of a man's grief and his journey on the Bermejo River after the loss of his beloved. The lyrics convey a deep sense of solitude and despair, as the protagonist becomes a peregrine, wandering aimlessly on the river that took the life of his loved one. The repetition of 'oh! Oh! Oh!' throughout the song emphasizes the depth of his sorrow and the haunting nature of his lament.

The river is personified as 'crazy' and 'traitorous,' reflecting the man's feelings of betrayal by the natural force that has caused him such pain. Despite this, he expresses a desire to be taken by the same river when he sleeps in his chalana, a type of boat, indicating a longing to be reunited with his lost love, even in death. The mention of coca and alcohol running out symbolizes the end of temporary escapes from his grief, and his resignation to his fate is clear as he asks God to take him to his beloved.

Los Guaranies, known for their folk music that often incorporates themes of love, nature, and indigenous culture, deliver 'Lamento Mataco' with a melancholic melody that complements the mournful lyrics. The song is a reflection on loss, the inexorable power of nature, and the human condition of seeking solace in the face of irrevocable tragedy. It's a testament to the universal experience of mourning and the search for peace after a devastating loss.