Bien Criolla y Bien Porteña (part. Raúl Iriarte y Luis Tolosa)

Miguel Calo's song "Bien Criolla y Bien Porteña" featuring Raúl Iriarte and Luis Tolosa is a beautiful tribute to love and Argentine culture. The lyrics express a deep, almost instinctual understanding of love, suggesting that no experience is needed to sing about it. Love is portrayed as something natural and effortless, like a nest formed between two birds. This metaphor emphasizes the simplicity and purity of genuine affection.

The song is described as a milonga, a traditional Argentine musical form that is both 'criolla' (native) and 'porteña' (from Buenos Aires). This duality reflects the essence of Argentine identity, blending rural and urban influences. The woman in the song is likened to various elements of Argentine culture: she is as melancholic as a tango, as refreshing as mint, and as simple yet binding as a lasso. These comparisons highlight her deep connection to the cultural fabric of Argentina, making her an embodiment of the nation's spirit.

The lyrics also delve into the emotional landscape of love, describing the woman as 'mate amargo' (bitter mate), a traditional Argentine drink that is both comforting and slightly bitter. This metaphor captures the complexity of love, which can be both sweet and sorrowful. The song concludes by reiterating its cultural roots, emphasizing that the milonga is a song of hope and love. Through its rich metaphors and cultural references, "Bien Criolla y Bien Porteña" becomes a heartfelt ode to both love and the unique cultural identity of Argentina.