When Vala asked, “What would we do without you?” at Teatro Flores, I could have asked them the same thing.
Cadena Perpetua have been part of my life since the early 2000s. Their songs hold memories, but I also keep finding things in them that speak to who I am today. That is why seeing them still means so much to me.
October 31 was originally meant to close El Club de los Parecidos, a tour of 22 shows across Argentina in six weeks. Nihilismo opened to a substantial crowd that listened and responded. I have always liked that about Cadena’s audience: people show up for the other bands too.
Before nine, there were already three generations gathering inside. Teenagers, longtime followers, and children with their parents. Having spent so many years in this audience myself, I found that moving. People who grew up with these songs were now sharing them with their children.
Then “Violencia” started, and my attention went straight to the stage. I know that opening chord well. It still gets me every time.
For nearly two hours, Cadena brought together older favourites, songs becoming just as essential, and material from the untitled album known as El Disco Negro. “Si Me Ves,” “NN Un Jubilado,” “Como Poder,” “I Wanna Destroy You,” and “Panorama” drew huge responses. The band played with enough force and conviction to make even the most familiar songs feel urgent.
Hernán “Vala” Valente, Eduardo “Edu” Graziadei, Damián “Chino” Biscotti and Santiago “Sam” Almeida sounded completely comfortable together. Vala and Chino live in Europe now, yet they played as though they still met to rehearse every day. Across a long set, the precision never came at the expense of feeling.
Damián “Chino” Biscotti at Teatro Flores. Photo: Diego U.
That matters to me. I have enormous affection for Cadena, and every time I see them I still want to hear what they are doing with those songs now. At Flores, they gave me plenty to be excited about.
Their lyrics are a big part of that attachment. There is anger and frustration, but also love, vulnerability and the struggle of getting through everyday life. Over the years, different songs have meant different things to me. Hearing them surrounded by people who have their own history with this music makes the experience even more personal.
Eduardo “Edu” Graziadei. Photo: Diego U.
The tour now has another date, November 6 at Groove, with affordable admission and an invitation to bring food and a toy in good condition for people in need. That practical solidarity is another reason I respect this band so much. The connection carries beyond the room.
Seeing those children alongside people who have followed Cadena for years left me feeling that the future is assured. These songs already matter to another generation, who will bring their own experiences to them. This music will never die. There is always something more to say and, above all, something more to share.