Serú Girán

Album Overview

Released in October 1979, "La Grasa De Las Capitales" is the second studio album by the Argentine progressive rock band Serú Girán. This album, under the Sazam Records label, showcases the band’s evolution in sound and lyrical content. Recorded at Estudios Ion in Buenos Aires from June to August 1979, it consists of nine tracks that reflect a blend of jazz-rock and symphonic influences.

Musical Composition

The album features a tight, energetic interplay among its members. Charly García leads with vocals and multiple keyboard instruments, including the Yamaha CP-70 and Minimoog. David Lebón contributes with both electric and acoustic guitars, adding to the album's rich sound. Pedro Aznar plays fretless bass and provides backing vocals, his playing style often compared to Jaco Pastorius. Oscar Moro rounds out the lineup with dynamic drumming and percussion. The production was handled by the band itself, with sound engineering by Amílcar Gilabert, ensuring a polished final product.

Lyrical Themes

This album serves as a bold critique of urban life and the consumer culture pervasive in Argentina during a time of military dictatorship. The title track, "La Grasa De Las Capitales," exemplifies this biting commentary. Other songs explore themes of isolation and paranoia, with "Viernes 3 AM" notably being banned by the military junta for its dark subject matter. The lyrics reflect the tensions of the era, making the album a significant socio-political statement as well as a musical endeavor.

Cover Art

The cover art, designed by Rubén Andón, parodies the sensationalism of the Argentine magazine "Gente." This visual element aligns with the album’s themes, emphasizing critique through both audio and visual media. The artwork complements the music, creating a cohesive package that reflects the band’s artistic vision.

Recording Location

"La Grasa De Las Capitales" was recorded in Buenos Aires, Argentina, specifically at Estudios Ion, from June to August 1979.