Episode 14

There are countless variations of famous tango tracks, giving DJs a chance to surprise their audience. But there’s a fine line that’s best not to cross. The temptation to play a rare or unexpected version just for the sake of novelty can sometimes backfire. Let’s take El Huracán as an example.  

Consider this surprising version by 𝑱𝒖𝒂𝒏 𝑺𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒉𝒆𝒛 𝑮𝒐𝒓𝒊𝒐. Lacking dynamics and feeling somewhat awkward for dancing, this version is an example of a track that might be interesting to listen to but doesn't quite work on the dance floor.  

Then there are the more symphonic renditions:  

• 𝑬𝒅𝒈𝒂𝒓𝒅𝒐 𝑫𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒕𝒐 (1961)  

• 𝑭𝒖𝒍𝒗𝒊𝒐 𝑺𝒂𝒍𝒂𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒂 (1967)  

Both are beautifully arranged, yet more suited for a concert hall than a milonga.  

If you're an experienced dancer, you probably already know that there are better versions for dancing. For example:  

•  𝑬𝒅𝒈𝒂𝒓𝒅𝒐 𝑫𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒕𝒐 (1932)

A classic version that works well for dancers of all levels and fits naturally into a local milonga.  

For larger tango events like marathons, these versions shine:  

•  𝑬𝒅𝒈𝒂𝒓𝒅𝒐 𝑫𝒐𝒏𝒂𝒕𝒐 (1950)  A fast and lively take, with an engaging piano interlude that energizes the dance floor.  

•  𝑱𝒖𝒂𝒏 𝑫'𝑨𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒛𝒐 (1944)  An eccentric, high-energy version, perfect for spicing things up.

•  𝑨𝒍𝒇𝒓𝒆𝒅𝒐 𝑫𝒆 𝑨𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒔 (1948)  A well-balanced arrangement that preserves power while keeping all instruments in harmony.  

If you’re a fan of modern tango orchestras, there’s also an excellent choice:  𝑺𝒐𝒍𝒐 𝑻𝒂𝒏𝒈𝒐 𝑶𝒓𝒒𝒖𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒂  

Dynamic, powerful, and full of suspense, yet with a comfortable rhythm for dancers.  

So, when you discover a new version, resist the urge to impress just for the novelty of it. Take a moment to consider how it fits within the context of the dance floor. An experienced DJ understands this fine line and makes selections based on the event, the crowd, and the energy of the dancers.  

#tango, #TangoArgentino, #tangodancer, #milonga, #milonguero, #tangodj